Bells of Saint Andrew's

Do You See The Pattern?

Change ringing is is the art of ringing a set of tuned bells in a series of mathmatical patterns called "changes".  No attempt is made to produce a conventional melody.

The popularity of Change Ringing reflects its opportunities for physical recreation, intellectual stimulation, aesthetic enjoyment, and social camaraderie.

For more information on English Change Ringing, please go to The Central Council of Church Bell Ringers.

Our six "English Change Ringing bells" were the first in the state of Maryland.  We are fortunate to be one of 50 towers in North America that have bells hung in the English style which allows for "full circle" or "Change" ringing.  Most bells are merely chimed; they are swung in a small arc and the clapper hits first one side and then the other. 

In the English style, starting with chiming, the angle of swing is gradually increased until the bell is swinging in a full circle through 360 degrees.  The bell is then balanced (set) mouth upwards. From this point it is possible for the ringer to swing the bell alternately one way and then the other, controlling the speed of striking.

Full circle ringing was developed about 300 years ago.  Over the years, ringers have devised patterns where the bells "change" one place everytime they strike, starting with rounds (ringing down the scale). Being able to control the stiking allows for complex patterns of sound to be rung.

Come and join us on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. for group practice.  This is a wonderful opportunity to learn something that is great fun, good exercise, and mentally stimulating.  Musical knowledge is NOT a prerequisite for this activity.  Bell handling lessons are scheduled individually. 

All photos courtesy of Carroll Lentz