Handchimes are musical instruments which are rung by hand, similar to

handbell A handbell is a bell designed to be rung by hand. To ring a handbell, a ringer grasps the bell by its slightly flexible handle – traditionally made of leather, but often now made of plastic – and moves the arm to make the hinged cla ...

s. Typically, they are tuned square tubes with an external clapper mechanism. Many handbell techniques can also be applied to handchimes, though some are more difficult (such as six-in-hand) or impossible (malleting).

Uses

Handchimes were originally intended to be used as a training tool for prospective handbell ringers. They are cheaper, easier, lighter and more resilient than handbells, making them more accessible for school groups, church youth choirs and senior citizens' groups.''Using Handchimes'', p. 3 Handchimes are also frequently rung in conjunction with handbells. Certain handbell pieces will involve playing handbells and handchimes at the same time, or alternating between the two through various sections of the music. Handbell ensembles will frequently have a collection of handchimes to use along with their handbells. Handchimes are also used in classrooms to teach music.

Manufacturers

As of 2018, there are 3 manufacturers of handchimes in the United States: * Malmark (Choirchimes) *

Schulmerich (bell maker) Schulmerich may refer to: * Edward Schulmerich (1863–1937), American businessman and politician * Wes Schulmerich (1901–1985), American baseball player * Schulmerich (bell maker), a handbell A handbell is a bell designed to be rung by han ...

(MelodyChimes) * Suzuki (ToneChimes)

References

External links

{{Percussion Idiophones struck directly Pitched percussion instruments Hand percussion