Handbell Toolbox

Benefits of ringing on higher numbers

• Patterns last longer.
• Reinforces patterns on lower numbers
• More time to settle into pattern before having to look for the treble.
• Tenors are unaffected by bobs.
• Improves rhythm on lower numbers.
• New patterns – unless you ring non-standard pairs (e.g. 1-2 3-5 4-6 7-9 8-10).

Ringing on eight bells

Even if you normally only ring on six bells, the occasional foray into ringing on eight or more bells is not only a welcome change, but also helps develop rhythm and a greater understanding of the three positions in minor and adds a new position:

• The coursing position – hunting with one bell between you.
• The 2/3 position – hunting with 3 bells between you.
• The 3/4 position – hunting with 5 bells between you.
• The opposites (or 4/5 position) – hunting with 7 bells between you.

On eight bells, the 2/3 position (with a gap of 3) becomes much clearer, on 10 bells the 3/4 position (with a gap of 5) becomes clearer etc.

When starting to ring on higher numbers you don't have to stick to the standard pairs. It is much easier to establish a rhythm if everyone rings coursing pairs initially (e.g. 1-2 3-5 4-6 7-9 8-10). The rounds will feel a bit weird and lumpy at first but you'll soon get the hang of it.

You can print out the four positions on this cribsheet and keep them as a handy reference.

Practising the positions

It is important to practise these positions until they become automatic. This requires you to do your homework.

You might look like the nutter in the park, reciting numbers or mantras or twiddling your thumbs whilst sitting on a bench, but it works! Online ringing simulators also help as they will introduce you to the rhythm of the different positions.