Workshop Location

Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1021 Spaight Street, Madison, Wisconsin.
Ample free parking is available in the lot adjacent to the church and directly across the street​

Schedule (August 6-8, 2025)
The workshop is two and a half days: Wednesday from 1:00 to 4:30pm and Thursday/Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm.
Participation requires attendance at all workshop sessions and the closing performance.

Two Performance Track Options
Each track includes different music levels and selections.
  • Track 1 (level 2 and 3 music)
    • Designed for developing ringers/directors who have had some prior handbell choir ringing experience (a minimum of 6 months preferred), or have had piano, instrumental, or vocal instruction, and are comfortable reading music (treble or bass clef).
  • Track 2 (level 3 and 4 music)
    • Designed for experienced intermediate/advanced ringers who are comfortable ringing complex music in a fun fast-paced performance  choir setting.
Mass rung selections are the same for both tracks and performed by all workshop participants. 

Ringing Position Assignments & Music 

  • Assigned ringing positions  based on ringer preferences submitted with registration
  • Workshop music is mailed to participants in advance of the workshop

Lunch Options

Lunch is not included in the registration fee or served on site, however there are multiple lunch options available close to the event, including:
  • Bring your lunch (refrigerator and microwave available)
  • Leave the event to visit a local restaurant (multiple fast-food and local options)
  • Place an order with a local restaurant for delivery to the church
A lunch area is provided. Local coffee shops, gas stations, and grocery stores are within blocks of the event for easy access as desired.

Wednesday Evening Group Dinner (optional, reservation required)

On Wednesday evening, all participants are invited (guests welcome) to enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant. Attendees are responsible for their own check and gratuity, however, a reservation is required. More details about the location and menu will be provided to participants in advance of the workshop.

Activities for Recreation & Relaxation

The City of Madison and area communities offer a wealth of opportunities for exploration and recreation; including many fine shops, restaurants, parks (Orton park is within walking distance from the event), and hotels.

What to Bring

  • Water bottle  (A filtered water refill station is available)
  • Comfortable shoes and a carpet square with a smooth backing to stand on if desired
  • Handbell gloves (required)
  • Black 3-ring handbell notebook
  • Music riser
  • Please 3-hole punch your music in advance if possible
  • There is no concert outfit requirement for closing concert

When You Arrive

  • Workshop arrival begins at 12 Noon on Wednesday (first session begins at 1:00 pm)
  • Because all participants preregister, it is not necessary to check-in upon arrival
  • All participants meet in the Sanctuary for the first session
  • Rehearsal locations and times for both tracks and mass ringing are included in the Daily Workshop Schedule

Other Notes

  • Workshop music is be mailed to participants in advance
  • The sanctuary is air-conditioned, however the lower level classroom/lunch room area is not air-conditioned
  • The church is accessible, including an elevator to the lower level
  • It is not necessary to bring any instruments, equipment, tables, foam, mallets, or singing bell dowels unless specifically requested
  • Please include your name on your music binder and music riser
  • Feel free to invite your family and friends to attend the closing concert (open to the public at no charge)

Workshop Updates

  • E-mail updates are sent as needed prior to the workshop
  • Once the workshop begins, announcements are made at the sessions