Area 5: Who We Are
Handbell Musicians of America is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the musical art of handbell/handchime ringing through education, community and communication. HMA is composed of 12 regional areas covering the United States. Area 5 comprises the states of Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Area 5 supports ringing education and activities in these five states by offering programs and resources to support, build and maintain handbell and handchime programs in our communities, churches and schools. Some of our past activities include:
- Basic ringing and technique training workshops for ringers and directors
- Massed ringing festivals featuring nationally known clinicians
- Handchime grants for school music programs
- Supporting all-state choirs with scholarships and “handbells in classrooms” initiatives at state music educators’ meetings
- Ringing events targeted to different types of ringers (community ensembles, churches, young adults, youth)
- Mentoring and networking opportunities
We also provide scholarships for handbell ringing events in Area 5 and at the National HMA level.
Our bylaws, rules of procedure, and a summary of board meeting minutes shall be made available to Area 5 members upon request.
For more information please explore this website or reach out to us with any questions, and feel free to sign up for our newsletter for updates on our events. We’re here to serve you!
Area 5 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We appreciate your support of our musical outreach and educational programs.
Mission
Handbell Musicians of America is dedicated to advancing the musical art of handbell / handchime ringing through education, community, and communication.
Values
We listen and respond to the needs of the handbell community within our five-state Area.
We strive for musical excellence at all skill levels.
We include all ages, backgrounds, and interests.
We endeavor to be a diverse community.
We create partnerships with those who share our goals and values.
We act as responsible stewards of resources placed in our care.
Vision
Handbell Musicians of America is the national organization devoted to uniting people through the musical art of handbell and handchime ringing. As the principal voice for this medium we envision a community in which handbell musicians of every skill level realize their full potential through mentorship, education, and events. We envision our members uniting with others to create a world in which the art form is musically respected and has universal appeal.