Fundamentals
of Orthodox Bellringing:
Mastering the Basics
Learn the theory and technique you need to ring for church services throughout the year. Built for all skill levels, this course establishes a baseline of terminology and technique so we’re all on the same page as we learn and grow together as a community of Orthodox bellringers.
Prerequisites
To be successful in this course, here’s what you need:
1. A basic knowledge of music theory
2. A set of at least 5 bells
Package A
- Institutional Plan: 4 seats for the price of 3:
$996$747 - Access to all 16 video lessons
- Lesson outlines and notation for the exercises
- Access to yearly Rubric Guide
- 1 phone consult (up to 45 min) on ringing system setup ($75 value)
Package B
- Access to all 16 video lessons
- Lesson outlines and notation for the exercises
- Access to yearly Rubric Guide
- 1 phone consult (up to 45 min) on ringing system setup ($75 value)
Package C
- Access to all 16 video lessons
- Lesson outlines and notation for the exercises
- Access to yearly Rubric Guide
FAQs
Will I always have access to the videos?
Yes! Your access to the video lessons does not expire.
Why do I need a minimum of 5 bells?
Orthodox bellringing is characterized by 3 layers of rhythms that happen at the same time. To make that happen, you need at least two bells rung with your right hand, two more with your left, and one that’s rung with a pedal.
I already ring the bells at my church. How will this course help me?
Even if you’re already ringing, this course teaches you the skills that are critical to ringing at a hight level:
1. Achieve total separation between your right and left hands, allowing you to switch your focus and musical attention from one to the other as needed.
2. Always know where you are and where you’re headed in the structure of each improvised peal.
3. Understand the nature of the bells as an instrument.
Can I print off the notation downloads?
Yes! However, these materials are under copyright. Please do not share them with others who have not purchased the course. Instead, send them to our website so they can purchase a seat for themselves. This supports the creation of new content, including the Intermediate and Advanced courses.
Fundamentals Lesson List
1. Course Overview
2. What is Orthodox Bellringing?
3. Theory, Part 1
4. Setup
5. Releasing Sound
6. Pedal Technique
7. The Toll
8. Left Hand Technique
9. Right Hand Technique
10. The Chain-Peal
11. Putting It All Together
12. Basic Right Hand Motifs
13. Theory, Part 2: Improvisation
14. The Funeral Toll
15. Theology and Symbolism
16. How To Apply What You’ve Learned