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Handchimes What is a Handchime ? AGEHR, Inc. states: The handchime is a metal tube, most commonly an aluminum extrusion, slotted and cut to produce a musical tone. The length of the slot in the tubing determines the fundamental pitch which is the clearly dominant tonal element, while the length of the unslotted portion (that which is held in the hand) is selected and fitted with a plug to provide substantial reinforcement of the tonal frequency produced by the slotted portion (the tines). The clapper mechanism is externally mounted and strikes the tube at the predetermined point to produce the desired pitch. When rapidly moved forward, the hammer strikes the tube which resonates a tuned frequency. Each Handchime is of different length, therefore, different pitch. A set of 13, 25, 37 or more handchimes, chromatically tuned, comprise as set. Many styles of music may be produced with handchimes. The sustained, lush tone lends itself to slower tempos. How do I select a Handchimes to purchase? There are three manufacturers of handchimes,Malmark,Schulmerich,and Suzuki. Suzuki is in Japan. Each of these companies are reputable and stand behind their products. Each has representatives in the United States and multiple maintenance sites. The best way to select a handchime is to request a demonstration. It would be to your advantage to arrange a comparison demo, that is, have representatives present at the same time with a set a handchimes. Seeing, hearing, playing, and having an explanation of the benefits of each product will avoid the "lapse of memory" we often have when a new timbre replaces the old. If this is not possible, visit several bell groups with different handchimes to make your comparisons. This can be easily done by attending a workshop or festival. Directors and ringers are most anxious to demonstrate and explain why they like their bells. They are also willing to tell of any problems or deficiencies they have had. Handbell/Handchime Loan Programs. Handchime Loan Program Scholarships: Several Areas of AGEHR have loan programs of sets of Handbells and/or Handchimes for beginning goups in their Area. The loan programs are usually restricted for schools or beginning organizations for a limited amount of time. Each Area has its own guidelines. Contact information can be found at http://www.knology.net/~jkearns/faqloan.htm.

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