Bethany Ding-a-Lings to present holiday handbell concert Dec. 11

WEST JEFFERSON — The sounds of Christmas will come alive when the Bethany United Methodist Church Adult Handbell Choir, The Ding-a-Lings, presents a concert of holiday music on Sunday afternoon, Dec. 11, at 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary of the church.

The Ding-a-Lings were formed in 1985 and are under the direction of Jane Lonon. The annual holiday concert has become a favorite for audiences of all ages and features sacred and secular Christmas music. The program begins with a bell processional that moves into the familiar “Joy to the World.” The concert includes a beautiful rendition of “What Child Is This,” “Silent Night,” “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and other sacred and secular favorites of the holiday season. Several pieces offer instrumental accompaniments including Allison Weaver on the piano and organ, John Chapman on harmonica and trumpet, a vocal solo by Bob Zahner, and a hammered dulcimer solo by Connie Woolard. The concert will open and close with the piano holiday selection favorites by Joyce Kilby.

The handbell choir consists of 14 ringers manipulating five octaves of handbells and four octaves of hand chimes. Members of the choir are Ginger Chapman, John Chapman, Marilyn Gibbs, Pat Hopkins, Kathy Howell, Heather Judson, Jennifer Judson, Donna Lamm, Becky Marsten, Edie Miller, Pat Morrison, Burt Prange, Connie Woolard, and Bob Zahner.

The Ding-a-Lings are celebrating 37 years of handbell ringing at Bethany. Since 1985 forty plus individuals have been a part of the choir; several original members are still active in the group. The Ding-a-Lings participate in Massed Ringing Festivals and regularly attend regional workshops and events. The concert is free and open to the community. Bethany Methodist Church is located on Highway 194 in the Baldwin Community. For more information, call Bethany at (336) 877-2801 or Jane Lonon at (336) 877-6663.