Hershey Handbell Ensemble 20th Anniversary (Lancaster, PA)

The Hershey Handbell Ensemble is celebrating its 20th year. Formed in 2004, the ensemble is based in south-central Pennsylvania.  It was formed to fulfill the need for an auditioned community ensemble comprised of persons able to play advanced literature, interested in advancing the art of handbell ringing through education and performance while uniting people through the musical arts. The fifteen member group, representing 6 south-central PA counties, under the direction of Dr. Shawn Gingrich performs on seven and a half octaves of Malmark Handbells, four octaves of Petit and Fritsen Handbells, Silver Melody Bells, Handchimes, and other assorted instruments. In 2015, the ensemble performed at the White House.

To celebrate its 20th year, the ensemble has commissioned a composition by Fred Gramann. Mr. Gramann is the previous organist and music director of the American Church in Paris where he served for 46 years. The concert will also feature the other three original compositions the ensemble has commissioned during its 20 years.

For more information, please visit www.hersheyhandbellensemble.org or call 717-298-7071.