To all our friends in Area 5,

All of us in Grand Rapids, Michigan, are very excited to have National Seminar here this coming July! From July 17-21, 2018 approximately 400 handbell directors, ringers, composers, educators, and industry representatives will be at the DeVos Place Convention Center and Amway Grand Hotel to participate in numerous classes and workshops, hear concert performances by some of the best handbell ensembles in the U.S., and enjoy opportunities for networking and fellowship.

Embellish is honored to serve as Local Liaison for this event, and obviously, that will mean organizing and moving a lot of equipment during the event. Fortunately, the HMA equipment coordinators have the system down to a science, and all equipment is insured and well-tracked. But the bottom line is we can’t do this without your help! We will be rounding up around 40 sets of bells, along with chimes and other auxiliary equipment, including foam (but no tables and covers are needed).

We will also need all kinds of volunteers. Loaning and schlepping equipment are highest priority: if you are coming to the event, please consider bringing equipment with you. Any organization or individual that loans a full set of handbells or handchimes to AGEHR will receive a one-year membership (or extension of their current membership) in Handbell Musicians of America. Also, each organization or individual will receive two (2) complimentary tickets to one of the featured concerts. Beyond that, we need organizational help throughout the event, from moving equipment to passing out music for reading sessions. You’ll find that being involved at this level adds to the energy and excitement of this amazing event.

If you are able to assist us by loaning equipment or volunteering, please contact the Local Liaison and
Equipment Managers for the event, Embellish Handbell Ensemble. ([email protected])

Thanks in advance for the help. We can’t wait to see you all in our great city in July!

Embellish Handbell Ensemble
[email protected]