Arts, Dining & Entertainment

Bells of Joy presents 33rd annual Christmas concert

Friday, Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m.—RUTLAND—The Bells of Joy, directed by Karen James, will present its 33rd annual Christmas Concert on Friday, Dec. 16,7:30 p.m. in the chapel of the United Methodist Church. Inspired by the “Lessons and Carols Service” from Kings College Cambridge in England, this concert will feature traditional Christmas carols like “Lo How a Rose E’er Blooming,” “What Child is This,” and “Carol of the Bells” arranged specially for this unique instrument. Pianist Kyle Stoodley will accompany Bobbie Fillioe and director Karen James for a delightful bell tree arrangement of “Divinum Mysteruim.” Lessons will be read by Alan Betts.
Thirty four years ago, Charlotte Steele gave the first three octaves of handbells to the Rutland United Methodist Church in memory of her husband, Arthur Steele. Both of them had a great love of music, and beginning with this initial gift, the Rutland church has been filled with the love of music. The Bells of Joy now ring a full five octaves of handbells and hand chimes which have been given over the past 34 years in memory of many loved ones by numerous individuals who love the sounds of the music. Over the years handbells have evolved into a complex precision musical instrument with unique tonal color and a vast range of techniques that surprise many people. The visual beauty of ringers performing, as well as their gorgeous sound, has been found to capture the attention of all ages.
This year, the Bells of Joy Ringers include members of the United Methodist Church, several Castleton University Music Majors, and local community members who love coming together in harmonic confluence to make beautiful music together on this lovely instrument.
This concert will lift your heart and spirit and renew your soul. Donations greatly appreciated. United Methodist Church is located at 71 Williams St., Rutland.

 

Photo courtesy of Karen James
Bells of Joy handbell choir performs its 33rd annual Christmas concert, Friday.

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