Distinctly Teen is a fun and exciting handbell event for ringers ages 13-18.
Spend 2½ days playing intermediate to advanced repertoire and developing skills in handbell technique and general musicianship under the leadership of Erik Der.
Perform in a shared concert with the All-Star Choir during National Seminar that will be livestreamed.
$145/person. Scholarships available.
About the Director
Erik Der is a lifelong handbell musician who loves the instrument for its emphasis on ensemble, movement, and rich sonic textures. He is an active director, ringer, and clinician in Orange County and Los Angeles, CA, and has experience directing a variety of age groups (middle school, high school, college, adult). He is currently the director of handbell activities at Concordia University Irvine (California), where he directs the Spirit Bells ensemble, teaches handbell pedagogy and directing, instructs private lessons, manages national tours, and runs the annual handbell invitationals and festivals in partnership with his colleague Alex Guebert.
He additionally serves on the Area 12 board for Handbell Musicians of America, directs handbells at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Orange, performs with the Cathedral Bells of St. John’s Lutheran in Orange, and is a founding member of the Handbell Renaissance septet in Irvine, California.
Repertoire
Maandamano, L3, Timothy Waugh, From the Top Music, #203711
Wade in the Water, L3+, Benjamin Tucker, Alfred Handbell, MAP45230
From Everlasting to Everlasting, L3, Julie Turner, Sonology Music, SM10-06
Numquam te Dare, approx. L3+, Erik Der (unpublished, approx L3+), Ordering information to come
Toccata on King’s Weston, L3+, Matthew Compton, Hope Publishing Company, MHP2767
Registration
Registration fee is $145; Scholarships are available.
Cancellation Policy
Through June 20, 2024, the total fee, minus a $25 administrative charge, will be refunded. After June 20, 2024, no refund will be provided.