Distinctly Teen is a fun and exciting handbell event for ringers ages 13-18.
Play intermediate to advanced repertoire and develop skills in handbell technique and general musicianship under the leadership of Dr. Lynn Atkins.
Perform in a shared concert with the All-Star Choir during National Seminar that will be livestreamed. Participants must be affiliated with an individual or group with an active HMA membership, or be a student member of HMA.
$150/person. Scholarships available.
About the Director
Dr. Lynn Gary Atkins, Jr. is an active conductor, educator, and advocate for the handbell art form whose career spans classrooms, concert halls, and community ensembles. A native of the Jersey Shore, he began his musical journey through the handbell training program at Westminster Choir College of Rider University, where he studied with Kathleen Ebling Shaw and performed with the Westminster Concert Bell Choir. He earned his Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Westminster and later completed the dual Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Choral Conducting Performance, Pedagogy, and Literature at James Madison University, where he was inducted into Pi Kappa Lambda and Mu Phi Epsilon.
Dr. Atkins currently serves on the National Board of Directors for Handbell Musicians of America and is the Artistic Director of L.A. Bronze Handbell Ensemble, leading dynamic performances that highlight the artistry and versatility of handbells. His leadership has also included directing the James River Ringers in Richmond, Virginia, and the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble, where he fostered creativity and collaboration.
Beyond his handbell work, Dr. Atkins is Assistant Professor of Music, Director of Choral Activities at California State University, Dominguez Hills. He also directs the South Coast Chorale, the LGBTQ+ chorus of Long Beach, and performs with the Long Beach Camerata Singers and Catalyst Chamber Ensemble. Lynn’s work celebrates connection, creativity, and the belief that music has the power to inspire
and transform.
Repertoire
Carillon, Louis Vierne/Fred Gramann, L4, JHS9200
Arirang, Jason Krug, L2+, GMH350032
A New Day, Caleb Onstead, L3, From the Top 20856
Quietude, Michael J. Glasgow, L3-, G8494
I’m Still Standing, Elton John & Bernie Taupin/Kevin McChesney, L3+, JHS9622
Registration
Registration fee is $150.
Event Shedule
Wednesday, July 15
11:45 AM – 1:45 PM: Optional – lunch and attend concert with your chaperone
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Distinctly Teen check-in and welcome in Room 111*
2:30 PM – 5:45 PM: Rehearsal (w/breaks)
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Attend concert
Thursday, July 16
8:00 AM: Grab & Go breakfast available for purchase in Handbell Commons
9:00 AM – 11:45 AM: Rehearsal (w/break)
11:45 AM – 1:45 PM: Provided lunch and attend concert
2:00 PM – 3:15 PM: Class session
3:30 PM – 4:45 PM: Rehearsal
4:45 PM – 5:45 PM: Visit Handbell Commons with your chaperone
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Attend concert with your chaperone
Friday, July 17
8:00 AM: Grab & Go breakfast available for purchase in Handbell Commons
9:00 AM – 11:45 AM: Rehearsal (w/breaks)
12:00 PM – 1:45 PM: Provided lunch and attend concert
2:00 PM – 3:15 PM: Class session
3:30 PM – 4:45 PM: Rehearsal
4:45 PM: Move equipment to Northern Lights ballroom
5:00 PM: Visit Handbell Commons with your chaperone
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Attend concert with your chaperone
Saturday, July 18
8:00 AM: Grab & Go breakfast available for purchase in Handbell Commons
9:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Dress rehearsal in Northern Lights Ballroom
10:30 AM – 11:45 AM: Chaperoned break
11:45 AM – 12:30 PM: Provided lunch
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Change clothes and prepare for concert
1:45 PM: Call time for Distinctly Teen
2:00 PM: Concert
*Distinctly Teen rehearsals, lunches, and classes will be in room 111.
Lodging
Hotel information can be found HERE.
Distinctly Teen Scholarship
Deb Heine Young Ringer Scholarship Fund
The Deb Heine Scholarship for Young Ringers provides support for individuals under the age of twenty to participate in Handbell Musicians of America’s national events. The scholarship includes full registration to the event, hotel nights (location and number of days depend on event), and up to $300 reimbursed for travel expenses.
Two scholarships will be awarded for Distinctly Teen in 2026.
Apply for Deb Heine Scholarship
Cancellation Policy
Through June 20, 2026, the total fee, minus a $25 administrative charge, will be refunded. After June 20, 2026, no refund will be provided.