1. What are the requirements to be a member?
The only requirement is that the ringer must attend school, whether public, private, home school, or college. However, commitment, motivation, and a positive attitude are necessary personality traits of both ringers and parents to be a part of the organization.
2. How can my child become a member?
If you believe you or someone you know might be interested in joining, please feel free to contact us.
3. What is the difference between the ensembles within the DSBC?
The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir consists of three ensembles:
- The Senior ensemble is the performing ensemble made up of 30 ringers.
- The Junior ensemble are in training to replace a Senior ensemble member when a position becomes available.
- The Preparatory ensemble is where ringers with little musical experience are taught basic music skills before being promoted to the Junior ensemble.
4. How often does the bell ensemble rehearse?
The ensembles rehearses during the regular fall and spring school semesters but does not hold rehearsals in the summer.
- The Junior ensemble and Preparatory ensemble rehearse once a week on Thursdays from 5:00 – 6:30 PM.
- The Senior ensemble rehearses every Tuesday from 6:30-9:00 PM and certain Sundays from 2:00-4:30 PM.
- In November and December there are additional rehearsals for The Littlest Wiseman production.
5. Where does the ensemble perform?
Since 1964, the DSBC has performed in the annual play pageant of the nativity “The Littlest Wiseman”.
- The Senior ensemble tours annually to wide variety of venues. For information on their past tours please click here.
- The DSBC has evolved into a world-renowned musical organization, performing for royalty and diplomats, and castles and cathedrals. Some of our once-in-a-lifetime opportunities have included performances on stage at Carnegie Hall with the New York Pops, at Disney World, and in the Vatican for Pope John Paul II.
6. Are there any upcoming performances?
If you are interested in attending a performance please visit our Calendar.
7. Can the DSBC be booked for an event?
If you are interested in having The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir perform at your event, contact us.
8. Are there any dues to be a member of the DSBC?
Membership to the Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir is open to any student who is interested and willing to make the commitment. There are some minimal expenses such as items required for the dress code.
- There is a Parent’s Club which has annual dues of $25 per family.
9. Where does the ensemble receive their funding?
We are a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization.
The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir is funded by the love and generosity of donors and encourages tax deductible donations. Donate here.
10. What are the benefits to becoming a member?
Members have the opportunity to participate in a truly unique organization which strives to teach and develop in its members self-discipline, self-motivation, consistency of accomplishment, etiquette, and other positive qualities through the art of music and related fields.
The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir is more than just another extra-curricular music opportunity. The essential qualities instilled in our members empower them to be remarkable ambassadors of our city and state throughout the world. We enjoy travel opportunities, making new friends, learning teamwork, gaining leadership skills, and discovering much about ourselves through our commitment to excellence.
11. How many octaves of bells does the choir use?
The choir uses of six octaves of Schulmerich Handbells ranging from G2 to G8.