Barrington church to host 10th annual Handbell Festival Concert

For the 10-year anniversary of the Barrington Area Handbell Festival Concert, organizers are planning a special treat.

As if the sounds of handbells were not enough, those in charge have added non-bell instruments including a pipe organ, the Crystal Brass quintet, flute, oboe, and African djembe drum and percussion accompaniment.

"The music selection took a long time," said Cathy Gathman, festival director and founder. "I wanted to do something special because it was our 10th anniversary. My goal was to pick songs that would incorporate other instruments."

However, for those who enjoy the bells, on tap will be 100 ringers, more than 330 bells and 250 hand chimes Sunday evening at Barrington United Methodist Church. Other participating churches include St. Matthew Lutheran Church, the adult and high school bell choirs of Lutheran Church of the Atonement, Salem United Methodist Church, Village Church of Barrington, and St. Paul United Church of Christ, all of Barrington.

The evening opens with an Easter hymn medley called, "Alleluia! The Strife Is O'er."

"I wanted a big, fanfare opening number," Gathman said. "The addition of an organ to it gives a powerful sound. Variety makes a good concert."

From there, the concert flows from slower, softer music, to upbeat and fast tempos, into more contemporary arrangements. The oboe, flute, and trombone parts stand out in "Dona Nobis Pacem," and percussion instruments do a number on "Hosanna, Loud Hosanna." Solo songs will be performed by Crystal Brass and by each participating choir.

The concert location is the same as last year's.

"We are the only one in the area that has the platform for 100 ringers and audience space," said Karen Maxwell, director of music at Barrington United Methodist Church. "Everyone who comes to our church says wonderful things about the acoustics."

Maxwell explained the acoustics are so good, in fact, that the Schaumburg Youth Symphony Orchestra had two recording sessions in the church. The group held a concert there as well.

For this particular event, Maxwell said the feel of listening to the music in a sanctuary might add to the experience.

"The nice, high ceilings make you think of a European cathedral," Maxwell said. "The sounds go up to the ceiling and float around. It's exhilarating to be in a church setting."

When Gathman started the program 10 years ago, her goal was awareness and gathering community. Word of mouth propelled her mission.

"The first year, we had 220 people attend and five choirs," she said. "This year we have seven choirs, and are expecting about 400 to 450 to attend."

Interestingly, all the choirs rehearse separately. They do not collaborate until the day of the event for a two-hour practice before the show. At that point, it is a matter of just ironing out the tough spots.

"I hope people take away an inspirational feeling of the joy music can bring in worship, life, and everyday living," Gathman said.

If you go

What: 10th Annual Barrington Area Handbell Festival Concert

When: 7 p.m. Sunday; doors open at 6:30

Where: Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road, Barrington

Cost: Free; donations accepted

Call: (815) 477-2565