In 1997, Open Door Baptist Church bought a used, three-octave set of Suzuki handchimes from a local church. There were 11 members in the first choir, all children and teens, playing very beginning, level 1 music. As interest in the chimes grew, as well as the number of choirs and skill level, the search was on to upgrade to handbells. With the help of Dr. Paul Rosene, a respected leader in the handbell community, Open Door was blessed with the purchase of a new, three-octave set of Malmark handbells in 2001.

Many choirs have been established since that time: “The Joyful Noises”, a beginning choir for children starting at the age of 7; “Gospel Bells”, an intermediate choir for adolescents; “The Hands of Praise”, an advanced teen choir, and “The Belles of Blessing”, an adult woman’s choir. Many small ensembles have also been created including the teen quartets “Three Guys and a Girl” and “The Bell Boys”.

The teen choir, “The Hands of Praise” and the quartet “Three Guys and a Girl” have competed in State and National competitions, both placing 1st in State. “Three Guys and a Girl” placed 4th nationally.

All of the choirs have performed many places locally; but, ministering to the congregation of Open Door Baptist Church is the priority of all the choirs.
 

If you would be interested in participating in the handbell ministry at Open Door, please contact Andrea D’Amico through the church. A prior, beginning knowledge of music is required, as well as, either membership or faithful attendance to our services.