2. Foundation Skills Toolbox

2.1. Teaching rounds

Once a ringer has learned to handle a bell they will be ready to ring rounds with other ringers. The aim is for them to ring with even, rhythmic striking without any 'clips' or 'gaps'.

Introducing the jargon

Introduce the ringer to the jargon associated with the pull off. If this is overlooked they quite often see it as an archaic phrase, rather than three necessary instructions, which can sometimes result in chaotic pull offs. Not a good start to a performance.

“Look to”, or “Look to the treble” is a warning that ringing is about to start. They should be advised to put some tension on the sally to pull the bell off the stay towards the point of balance in preparation for an accurate pull off.

“Treble’s going” will be followed by the treble ringer visually checking that all ringers have looked to.

“She’s gone” is said as the treble is pulled off. The student should pull off their bell in rounds immediately after the bell they are following.

Similarly at the end, to stop the ringing the conductor will call “Stand” or “Stand next time” when the treble is ringing at handstroke. The student should know that they must ring that handstroke, the following backstroke and be prepared to set the bell on the following handstroke.

What does good rounds sound like?

Particularly if you're a band with a number of ringers all learning together, it's a good idea to show people what they're aiming for. Visiting another tower with an experienced band can be an inspirational experience, particularly if that band is prepared to ring well struck rounds with each learner in turn. Alternatively, there are loads of YouTube videos to choose from and share with your band. Here's an example on 8 bells:

Working towards well struck rounds

To ring well struck rounds requires practice and the striking will slowly develop as the foundation skills are honed. The five foundation skills are:

  • Bell control
  • Listening
  • Rhythm and striking
  • Ropesight
  • Understanding the theory (in this case this is the theory of leading)

Ideas and exercises for teaching the five foundation skills can be found in the following sub-chapters.