Handbell Toolbox

8. Teaching handbells

ART principles apply to the teaching of handbells just as for teaching tower bell ringing.

Explain key words

Lead, hunt, rounds, minor, major etc.

Feedback

It's easy to stop at a crunchy bit and review what happened straight-away.

Vary your teaching style

What works with one learner won't work with another, so always look for different ways of explaining and practising concepts.

Whole-part-whole

If someone is not getting something, break it down into smaller parts.

Differentiate lessons and add variety

You'll find lots of ideas on these pages.

Set appropriate targets

Plan for the next lesson. Let your band know what their homework is and ensure the next practice goes along as planned – that way everyone feels a sense of progress.