VISION: Area 5 provides Bronze Track opportunities where advanced handbell ringers gain experience and develop confidence in ringing more complex handbell music. From these opportunities, ringers become more prepared for nationally ranked bronze-level events such as All Stars, Distinctly Bronze, Virtuoso, and Bay View.
BRONZE LEVEL RINGING: Ringers should have the ability and experience in ringing advanced music (Level 4 and higher). Ringers should be properly skilled in ringing accidentals, techniques, rhythms, meter changes, damping, and ringing stroke. With an emphasis on overall musicality, Bronze Track ringers should exhibit a collaborative mindset making the overall musical result the goal rather than an individualistic approach to ringing.
EXPECTATIONS: The first step in the Bronze Track process is to prepare and submit application/audition materials. Ringers accepted in the Bronze Track must purchase their own copy of the repertoire selections (bronze, coppers, and massed). After receiving your position assignment, ringers commit to fully preparing music prior to the festival. Bronze Track rehearsals at the festival are not designed for learning notes, rhythms, and bell changes. Ringers must arrive prepared and ready to shape and refine musical expression and ensemble performance. Special attention (including some memorization) should be given to passages with tempo alterations and rapid figuration. For any ringer, attendance, punctuality, and proper rehearsal etiquette (including a cheerful, positive, and cooperative outlook) create an optimum environment for the greatest achievement. Area 5 provides tables, pads, stands, handbells and handchimes. Ringers must bring their own music, split back binder, mallets (for assigned position), and black gloves for rehearsal and performance at the final concert.
APPLICATION/AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:
1. Application (online form)
a. Complete the Bronze Track Application Form Online
b. Includes a statement on your reason for auditioning and why you want to be part of this choir
c. Explain any particular skills that will be useful to a bronze choir. Promote why we should pick you.
d. Rank your top 3 preferred ringing positions
e. Provide the electronic referral URL to 2 people who can provide insight to your bronze-level ringing capabilities.
2. Audition (video upload)
a. Download and learn audition drills and exercises
b. Video yourself performing the drills and exercises at a comfortable tempo that best demonstrates your ringing ability. If desired, use a metronome.
c. Save and name your video file in this manner: Area 5 2023 Bronze_First Name Last Name
d. Upload video to the Bronze Track Google Drive URL: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WhHTq1TjtPJFQg4CWRqBysmEn8sRDLKn?usp=sharing
3. Audition materials must be submitted by January 20, 2023. Notification of acceptance/rejection will be sent via email by January 24, 2023
BRONZE TRACK SCHEDULE: The Bronze Choir will rehearse the Bronze repertoire in 3 sessions:
Friday, March 17, 2023:
Saturday, March 18, 2023:
- 9:15 - 10:15 am
- 1:00 - 2:00 pm
- 3:30 - 4:30 pm (Dress Rehearsal)