Audition for Bells of the Cascades
We are always looking for capable, Bronze-level ringers for our community handbell ensemble. We are looking for experienced and versatile ringers who perform with confidence, musicality, and precise technique. We are also interested in individuals who would be interested in serving as rehearsal substitutes.
Please contact membership@bellsofthecascades.org for a package of information.
Complete the application below to request an audition.
Expectations of ringers
Bells of the Cascades is a nonprofit community group. We expect members to commit to regular performances as well as periodic retreats and nonprofit business meetings, which we schedule with respect to members’ schedules.
Prospective members should be able to commit to rehearsals every Tuesday night in the Portland metro area.
Finally, every other year, Bells of the Cascades hosts handbell cruises, on which members both perform and host workshops for participants. (We think it’s pretty fun!) We schedule these far in advance so that everyone can plan ahead.
Application procedure
If you’re interested in auditioning with Bells of the Cascades, please complete the form below. You will be contacted by the membership committee chairperson with more information.
In addition to the application below, there are four other components to your audition:
Letters of recommendation from three references listed in your application. The membership commitee chairperson will provide you with information to send to your references.
Group ringing evaluation, which will include such areas as sight reading, treble (multiple-bell) and/or low bass techniques, musicality, sense of ensemble, ringing style, response to direction, learning curve in rehearsal, confidence, recovery, and more.
Individual music skills evaluation, which will consist of rhythm exercises, a demonstration of a working knowledge of handbell techniques and notation, sight-reading of both exercises and repertoire, and performing two or more pre-assigned parts in standard handbell repertoire while playing along with a recording of the pieces. You will receive an advance copy of the music and some of the exercises at least a week prior to the audition.
An interview with the membership committee, usually held immediately before or after the individual music skills evaluation.