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    13th International Handbell Symposium – Opening Ceremony Live Blog

    By Dean | August 4, 2008

    We do not have wi-fi access in the ringing hall. I am really shocked that a convention center of this caliber does not have internet access. I am sitting in the top row of the temporary bleachers. Looking out in front of me, I see about 100 choirs from all around the world. I have only been here for about an hour and already seen many people I know.

    Welcome – William H Griffin, Chair – 13th International Handbell Symposium

    Opening statements by Bill Griffin. They are translating his words into Japanese. White Chappel donated the opening bell that will travel around to all the symposiums until it returns to the US. Past donations have been made from Schulmerich and Malmark.

    Procession of Flags

    The procession of flags. Flags are being presented from the following nations: Japan, Korea, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, United States. Each flag enters the room from the left and proceeds to the podium where the representative from each nation sits in front of their flag.

    Music is being played during the presentation of the flags. I think the music is being played by Ring of Fire.

    From the International Symposium Schedule/Guide Book

    The opening chord was played by each representative. The bells were donated to AGEHR by Schulmerich and are silver.

    Welcome remarks by Alison Wood, Executive Director of the International Symposium.

    Next up is Debbie Rice representing AGEHR, the host guild. Debbie did her own translation. First in Japanese and then English.

    Jenny Cauhorn, Executive Director is now welcoming everyone.

    Ring of Fire is now doing a presentation of music. The group is to the right of the main podium. There are 13 ringers behind tables with only red covered foam. They are opening with Tempest by Kevin McChesney. The air conditioning in the room is welcome but did cover up the opening chord. For those who have not seen Ring of Fire, they have all their music memorized. There are no music stands and there are no covers on the tables. You can see every movement. And they are moving. Their ringing presents itself in both the music and the dance. Wow, the energy in the room is palpable. The emotion and energy flows out of this group. The next piece is Carillon by Dean Wagner. The dynamic control is amazing. It is a rare group that moves people to the edge of their seats with their music. The control over melody and harmony is simply amazing. Again, I am amazed. Dynamics with marts. The marted passage in this piece was done with a crescendo. Even when I knew what was next, there were surprises. The last piece is Fire Dance by Kevin McChesney. They are being joined by Guitar and Castenettes. The beginning of the piece blends the guitar and bells together. I love hearing bells with other instruments. There is a transition to a very fast section. I am amazed at the smoothness of the runs. There is a grace and power that makes this group one of the best. What a way to get everyone fired up and ready for this International Symposium. They received a standing ovation.

    Bill Griffin is now introducing the committee that put together this event. Bill is now introducing the educators/clinicians. Next is the introduction of the massed ringing conductors. Finally, a few announcements.

    This concludes the Opening Ceremonies.

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