Bell Program Overview
The First
United Methodist Church of Riverside has two bell choirs. The Allegro Ringers is
the adult bell choir and the other group is the Youth Bells. (The Youth Bells have
not yet picked out a name for the group.)
The Allegro Ringers are 11 members strong and are under the direction of Gayla Lonsbery. The Youth Bells, also under Gayla Lonsbery’Äôs direction, have nine members and are ages 12’Äî16.
The bell choirs play on five octaves of Schulmerich bells. These bells were originally purchased in 1975. In addition to the bells, the church has three octaves of Malmark chimes.
At the end
of the year, the bell choirs hold a concert. This is a great opportunity to hear
all the songs (except Christmas songs) that were played throughout the year. In
addition, the Allegro Ringers play an extra song that was not played for service.
Both bell choirs have a lot of fun while learning new bell techniques. They also have a great team spirit which shows itself while they work together to create a musical offering.
If you are interested in joining either group, please call the church office and leave a message for the director. The groups are always interested in spreading the joy of bell ringing to other people.