Gustavus Handbell Choirs

The Gustavus Handbell Choirs are a fun and accessible way for all students to get involved with music at Gustavus. Students of all experience levels are encouraged to participate, and they can expect to receive exposure to different musical styles and techniques. Each group performs in the Spring Handbells Concert, as well performances in Christ Chapel as part of a Daily Sabbath service. 

The Handbell Choirs, led by Chad Winterfeldt as conductor, consist of up to four groups, hosting space for up to nearly 40 students.

  • The Christ Chapel Ringers is a premiere audition ensemble. This group performs at the Gustavus Christmas in Christ Chapel and often goes off-campus to do performances around the state.
  • The Disney Ensemble choir performs songs from the Disney repertoire, providing students with exposure to contemporary, pop-focused music.
  • The Carillone and Bronze Handbell Choirs are introductory groups for those who have never played handbells or are looking to grow their skills. 

Members of the Handbell Choirs include students from all majors. The varying rehearsal schedules enable students involved in a wide variety of activities on campus to participate, including students in athletics, theater and dance, and more. This cross-participation from students of multiple organizations and campus groups enables many Handbell Choir members to find community, regardless of commitment level or initial musical abilities. 

Björling Handbell Honors Festival

The Björling Handbell Festival invites high school students who are ringers with intermediate and advanced handbell experience to join members of the Gustavus Handbell ensembles for a day of large group ringing, workshops focused on special techniques, plus social and community building activities designed to encourage artistic ringing in a fun environment. Sessions will be led by Dr. Chad Winterfeldt and members of the Gustavus handbell ensembles.
Learn more about the Handbell Honors Festival.

Get involved in Handbells at Gustavus

If you want to get involved with handbells at Gustavus, please contact Chad Winderfeldt.

Majors and Minors

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