handchime
Handchimes are musical instruments which are rung by hand, similar to handbells. Typically, they are tuned square tubes with an external clapper mechanism. Many handbell techniques can also be applied to handchimes, though some are more difficult (such as six-in-hand) or impossible (malleting).
handchime
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Handchimes are musical instruments which are rung by hand, similar to handbells. Typically, they are tuned square tubes with an external clapper mechanism. Many handbell techniques can also be applied to handchimes, though some are more difficult (such as six-in-hand) or impossible (malleting).
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wikidata · Q1050106 · wikipedia · Handchime
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Uses
Uses
On a music score, handchimes are indicated by a diamond shape on each note as opposed to an oval shape.
Handchimes were originally intended to be used as a training tool for prospective handbell ringers. They are cheaper, easier, lighter and more resilient than handbells, making them more accessible for school groups, church youth choirs and senior citizens' groups. They were originally based on bamboo instruments from Southeast Asia, with various American inventors iterating on designs. The first modern handchimes were produced by Malmark in 1982. Handchimes are also frequently rung in conjunction with handbells. Certain handbell pieces will involve playing handbells and handchimes at the same time, or alternating between the two through various sections of the music. Handbell ensembles will frequently have a collection of handchimes to use along with their handbells. Handchimes are also used in classrooms to teach music. Handchimes are proven to be helpful with teaching music theory and the responsibilities of playing an instrument to young children. It promotes teamwork among the students. This is because handchimes are played individually rather than in unison. Each student is responsible for the chimes assigned to him or her.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers
As of 2018, there are 3 manufacturers of handchimes in the United States: Malmark (Choirchimes) Schulmerich (bell maker) (MelodyChimes) Suzuki (ToneChimes)
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- “Handchime”, English Wikipedia, consulted as further reading
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- Wikidata, structured authority record Q1050106: handchime
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These works are cited by the source article, in its own numbering. They are recorded as its citations, not as sources VALÉORINE has verified.
- 1.Van Valey, Janet. Using Handchimes. Lorenz Publishing Company. 6. 1997. 28501946.
- 2.Van Valey, Janet. Enhanching Musicality with Handchimes. Overtones. 44. 3. 27–31. July–August 1997.
- 3.Guebert, Alexander M. The modern handbell ensemble as an asset to new music: Expanding opportunities in extended technique. 24. 2014. 978-1-303-98469-3.
- 4.Using Handchimes, p. 3
- 5.Nielsen, Chad. Ringing for the Restoration: The Bells at Temple Square and the Expansion of the Tabernacle Choir Brand, 2005–2025. Journal of Mormon History. 57. 3. 106-143. June 2026.
- 6.Handchimes in Classroom Music: Authentic Performance Instruments and Instructional Tools.
- 7.The Music Education Issue: Handbells and Handchimes in Your Local Schools. Handbell World. 2023-12-07.
- 8.MacGorman, Venita. Chime-In: A Handchime Review. Overtones. 46. 1. 15–16. January–February 2000.
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