Make Music & Memories at
“Bells of the Caribbean”
November 6-7, 2026
University of Puerto Rico–Carolina
Thinking about joining us for a handbell adventure? We thought so. Turn your next ringing event into a getaway. Sunshine, great music, and a welcoming community that rings together. You bring the sunscreen, we’ll bring the bells.
🎶 Clinicians
We’re excited to welcome Brenda Austin and Zilka Figueroa García as guest conductors for 2026. Together, they bring energy, expertise, and a passion for building musical connection across all levels of ringing.
🎵 The Experience
Bells of the Caribbean is a massed ringing experience designed to inspire and challenge ringers in a relaxed, island setting. Whether you attend with your ensemble or as an individual, you’ll be placed in a group that supports your growth while creating something meaningful together.
- Repertoire for beginner+ through intermediate and advanced ringers
- Engaging rehearsals led by experienced clinicians
- A collaborative and welcoming environment
- A shared performance experience
🌞 Why Bells of the Caribbean?
Because it is more than just another event. It is a chance to step away from the routine, connect with other ringers, and experience music in a completely different setting.
Make it more than a weekend. Turn the trip into something unforgettable.
✈️ Planning Your Trip
Participants arrange their own lodging and travel, giving you the flexibility to build your own island experience around the event.
📝 Registration
Registration is open now! Click the link below to sign up!
Music Selection:
Repertoire is between Levels 1 and 4, with this event designed for beginner and intermediate ringers and limited rehearsal time. Two categories will be available:
- Cat. A – ringers will be playing Level 1-2 pieces and a massed piece;
- Cat. B – ringers will be playing Level 3-4 pieces and a massed piece.
- Miles de pastores pequeñitos (L1+) Monsita Ferrer / Arr. Carlos J. Ávila Báez (Manuscript. It will be available by August 2026)
- Chequi Morena (L1+) Traditional Puerto Rico / Arr. Carlos E. Rivera Aponte / (Manuscript. It will be available by August 2026)
- Courage and Grace (L3) Michael Joy / Hope 3030
- Wade in the Water (L3+) Benjamin Tucker / Alfred 45230
- Carol of the Bells (L3) Alex Guebert / Hope 2929
- Milele (L3+) Jason Krug / RRBL 5087
- A Winter’s Night So Deep (L2) Brenda E. Austin / HOPE 3119
- Sympatico III (L1+) Kathleen Wissinger – (Manuscript. It will be available by August 2026)
- Sympatico I(L3) Kathleen Wissinger – From the Top (Cat. # 20475-5)
Registration now open! https://bit.ly/2026BellsCaribbean
Date:
Location:
Clinician/Conductor:
Zilka Figueroa García – Category A (Level 1-2)
Ringers Registration Fee:
Guest (Non-ringers) Registration Fee for meals:
Concert Attire:
Group Registration
Questions?
For more information or any questions, please reach out to
Participants Under 18?
For participants under 18 years old, a notarized parental consent and medical authorization form MUST be filled out. Please email chair.area4@handbellmusicians.org for more information.
Event Schedule:
2:00 pm = Registration
2:45 pm = Welcome/ Announcements
3:00 pm – 4:15 pm = Rehearsal 1
4:15 pm – 4:45 pm = Rehearsal 2 – Massed repertoire
4:45 pm = Break/Snacks
5:00 pm = Technique/Class
6:00 pm = Concert
Saturday, November 07,2026
8:30 am = Welcome/ Announcements
8:45 am = Warm up
9:00 am – 10:10 am = Rehearsal 3
10:15 am – 10:30 am = Rehearsal 4 – Massed repertoire
10:30 am = Break
10:45 am = Rehearsal 5
11:45 am – 12:00 pm = Rehearsal 6 – Massed repertoire
12:05 pm = Lunch
1:00 pm – 2:15 pm = Rehearsal 7
2:15 pm = Rehearsal 8 – Massed repertoire
2:30 pm = Break & Equipment relocation
3:00 pm = Rehearsal 9 = Final Rehearsal/Massed repertoire
3:30 pm = Concert
4:30 pm = We love handbells! See you on November 5-6, 2027!
Registration now open! https://bit.ly/2026BellsCaribbean
Travel / Accommodations: