Mark Bloedow, Clinician & Conductor

Picture
Mark Bloedow, Assistant Professor of Music, is Director of Handbell Activities at Concordia University Wisconsin including conducting the Alleluia Ringers and Chapel Ringers, as well as, the conductor and developer of Concordia’s community choir, the Concordia Civic Chorale.  In addition Mark is the Executive/Artistic Director of Maestro Productions, Inc. (including the Ringing Badgers Handbell Ensemble), and Music Director at Immanuel Lutheran Church, all located in Madison.  He was previously Artistic Director for Madison's Choral Arts Society Chorale and Guest Director, Associate Music Director and Music Director for Madison Area Concert Handbells.  Mark earned his Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh where he graduated with Outstanding Senior recognition. He received his Master's degree in Church Music from Concordia University Wisconsin, Mequon, and later served at Concordia as guest adjunct Professor of Music before joining the Concordia music faculty fulltime. 

Karen Johnson, Associate Clinician & Conductor

Picture
​Karen Johnson graduated from UW-Eau Claire with a degree in instrumental music education.   A retired band director, she remains an active musician as member and rehearsal director of the Ringing Badgers Handbell Ensemble, as a piano accompanist, and in her church.   A church musician since childhood, Karen became involved with handbells in 1988 and served as director of two ensembles for 28 years, and is a member of the Handbell Musicians of America.   Honors include the 2004 Wisconsin Award for Excellence in Teaching Music, Outstanding Jazz Educator, WAJE Distinguished Service Award, DCBA Public Service Award, and an FFA Outstanding Service Award.  In her spare time she enjoys traveling, composing and arranging music, and spending time with her family.

Handbell Week Staff

Mark Bloedow, Owner/Executive Director
Dorothy Nottelson, Program Assistant