2. Foundation Skills Toolbox

2.6. Kaleidoscope Toolbox

Kaleidoscope ringing is a stepping stone between call changes and Plain Hunt. It provides variety and fun whilst not being too difficult to master. Kaleidoscope ringing differs from call changes in two ways:

  • Each bell only moves one place (up or down) from its starting position – the ropesight is easier.
  • The change continues to be made until told to stop – developing bell control.

Kaleidoscope ringing develops a sense of rhythm. Initially kaleidoscope sequences move out of rounds and back into rounds again. Because the sound of rounds is familiar it is easier for the new ringer to identify their bell and any gaps, clips or uneven ringing, allowing you to correct their striking until good, even ringing is established.

Explaining Kaleidoscope Ringing

Kaleidoscope ringing is a series of changes made within two places. There are three basic exercises. Each one demands a higher level of bell control than the previous one. They are best introduced in the order:

  • Long places – four blows in one place.
  • Place making – two blows rung in each place. 
  • Dodging.

Dodging requires a bell to move from place to place on every stroke (handstroke and backstroke). Good bell control is needed to strike the changes accurately. Dodging on heavier bells can provide an opportunity to practise adjusting the tail end position to speed up or slow down the bell. You might wish to download and print out the following cribsheets to share with your band of ringers when introducing kaleidoscope exercises:

Striking a dodge accurately is a difficult skill to master. Why not look at our successful dodging tips to help you get there.

Using kaleidoscope exercises

Having learnt and successfully rung some of the easier kaleidoscope exercises the band can invent their own more complex sequences and give them a name.

Longer kaleidoscope exercisescan also be useful for ringers who want to practise pieces of work found later on in method ringing.

Kaleidoscope variations

There are a couple of named kaleidoscope exercises that will test you and your band. They can be rung for services and weddings, adding variety, whilst sounding interesting.