Handbell Resources

Handbells online

Want to connect with other ringers, directors, and handbell fans? Social media is a great way to do that. Facebook has several lively groups where you can share ideas, ask questions, swap tips, and even promote your concerts. Whether you’re curious about a tricky technique, looking for feedback on a piece, or just want to chat with people who get the joy of ringing, these groups are a great place to start.

Search for Handbell People, Handbell Conductors, International Handbells, Team Handbell, or Handbell-L on Facebook and jump in!

Handbell Manufacturers, Suppliers, Music

Note: We’re sharing these links as resources only — we’re not officially endorsing any company.

Handbell and Handchime Manufacturers

• Malmark Bellcraftsmen Inc.  (www.malmark.com)
• Schulmerich Carillons Inc.  (www.schulmerich.com)
• Whitechapel Bell Foundry Ltd.  (www.whitechapelbellfoundry.co.uk)
• Suzuki  (suzukimusic-global.com)

Music

From classics to brand-new releases, there’s no shortage of handbell music out there. Major publishers include J.W. Pepper, Hope, Agape, Concordia, and Hal Leonard. Many Canadian directors shop through Jeffers Handbell Supply (South Carolina), which offers a wide selection of music, gear, and more. Their site makes it easy to filter by octaves, difficulty, season, and more.

Many other smaller publishers are specific to handbell music, or self-published titles. Those include, among others, From the Top and Sheet Music Plus. Those two platforms in particular have many Canadian compositions in their catalogues.

Increasingly publishers are offering electric options for receiving your music. A digital download lets you purchase and print just the number you specify. A Digital Site License, for a flat fee, allows you to print as many copies as you need.

Maintenance and Repair

There are few authorized repair facilities for Schulmerich or Malmark in BC or Canada. To keep your lifetime warranty, you’ll need to ship your bells or chimes to a certified repair shop or the manufacturer. In Canada, the only person certified by the both Schulmerich and Malmark manufacturers is Emily Li of Canada Handbell Service.

• Canada Handbell Service (North York, ON)  (handbellservice.ca)
• Handbells etc. - Brandenburg Music (Edmonton, AB)  (www.brandenburgmusic.com/shop/HANDBELLS-ETC.htm)

Handbell merchandise and accessories

Are you looking for the perfect gift for a ringer or director, or just some merch to tell the world how much you love ringing? Here are a few small businesses that stock a variety of music and/or bell-themed items. Some also provide customized designs or goods. Check them out!

• Heather Nicholson  (WeLoveHandbells.ca)
• Third Bell on the Right  (thirdbellontheright.com)
• It’s a Bell Thing  (itsabellthing.com)
• Celtic Clapper Creations  (facebook.com/CelticClapperCreations)

Have we missed any? If you know of a business catering to handbell musicians, let us know!