Learn to ring and sing at free musical weekend

Have you ever wondered how it feels to ring a handbell? Or longed to sing in harmony with others? The Unitarian Universalist Church of Davis, 27074 Patwin Road, will open its doors to musically curious members of the community this weekend for a no-cost event featuring handbell ringing and choral singing.

Barbara Meixner, director of the Juuliebells, and Laura Sandage, director of the UU Sparks Choir, will team up to lead the weekend’s activities, which will culminate in the performance of three pieces for chorus accompanied by handbell choir at the Sunday services.

The theme of the Sunday services will be “Surrender and the Ensemble Experience.” Featured musical selections include the classic Dona Nobis Pacem, a medley of river songs arranged by Meixner, and a new original song by Sandage called “Secrets Can Be Sung,” with handbell accompaniment by Meixner.

Friday night’s fun ringing and singing workshop will begin at 7 p.m. with brief performances by members of the Juuliebells and the Sparks Choir. Then, participants will be invited to rotate through several choices of activities, including handbell ringing, chime ringing, round singing and part singing. Refreshments will be provided.

On Saturday, Sandage and Meixner will conduct an all-day rehearsal to prepare for Sunday’s performance, with doors opening at 9:30 a.m. Rehearsal runs from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Participants are asked to bring a sack lunch; drinks will be provided.

Pre-register for all or part of this musically enriching free event by emailing Sandage at lsandage@comcast.net or calling/texting 530-848-4812.