A handbell is rung by grasping it by the handle and moving the wrist, causing the clapper inside (which is on a hinge) to strike the outside of the bell, producing the sound. … Ringers can then put down and pick up bells as they are needed, and they can also use the tables themselves to create other effects.
Bells are polished frequently and occasionally sent back to their makers for tune-ups (literally) that involve grinding small bits of bronze from the bell to maintain the proper sounding pitch and overtones. But the primary way to keep bells safe from tarnish is to wear gloves when handling them.
Come and see the Lindfield Handbell Ringers again.
Show us how it’s done!
