RCR Showcase Handbells at NMEA

On November 21, 2024, the River City Ringers of Omaha had the honor of performing at the Nebraska Music Education Association (NMEA) conference in Lincoln, NE. NMEA, a professional organization for music educators, is dedicated to advancing music education across Nebraska by providing opportunities for professional development, advocacy, and the promotion of music programs in schools. River City Ringers was one of several groups chosen to perform through a video audition process.

In addition to their performance, the River City Ringers of Omaha and Bell-issimo of Lincoln introduced educators and attendees to the joy of handbell music through an innovative and interactive “Handbell Playground.”

The “Handbell Playground” offered a hands-on experience designed to immerse conference participants in the art of handbell ringing. Jennifer Johnson of Omaha, Liane Kirmis of Plattsmouth, and members of Bellissimo, including Nancy Youngman, Joan Michelsen, Susan Hoover, and Kaylee Hoover, provided expert guidance and instruction. Using educational resources from Handbell Musicians of America, they taught participants proper techniques for handling and ringing the bells. Attendees of all skill levels were invited to explore the instruments and collaborate to play a short piece of music. All teaching materials were provided by the HMA Bells in Schools Committee.

Attendees were excited—especially high school and college students encountering handbells and chimes for the first time. Many shared comments like, “My grandma’s church has them,” but had no personal experience with the instruments. Watching their faces light up as they mastered thumb damping and seeing their broad smiles as they performed a lively rendition of “Old McDonald” was heartwarming for everyone involved. Their presence at the NMEA conference was a celebration of artistry, collaboration, and the transformative power of music.

One particularly memorable moment occurred when a young man approached the booth with two friends and said wistfully, “I always wanted to play in a bell choir.” Without hesitation, Liane Kirmis replied, “Today we’re going to make your dreams come true!” She quickly assembled an impromptu 5-minute choir with other passers-by, turning his dream into a reality. The handbells’ charm extended beyond attendees. A neighboring exhibitor from a string instrument booth remarked that his time in a bell choir had been instrumental in developing his rhythmic skills, illustrating the versatile benefits of this unique musical experience.

Nancy Youngman, who also serves as the Area 8 Handchime Loan program chairman, expanded the event’s impact by distributing 20 applications to educators interested in receiving chimes for use in their classrooms. This effort further demonstrated the commitment to growing the reach of handbell education.

This inspiring initiative was made possible by the generous support of an anonymous donor, whose funding allowed the River City Ringers to bring the engaging and educational booth to life.

Through their performance and interactive exhibit, the River City Ringers underscored their dedication to fostering a greater appreciation for handbell music and its integral role in music education. Their presence at the NMEA conference was a celebration of artistry, collaboration, and the transformative power of music.

Written by Nancy Blackwell, published in Handbell Musicians of America Area 8 Quavers and HMA Overtones