CLASSES AND CLINICIANSWorkshops / Culture Classes※Information for the MIRAI Choir is listed on the bottom of the page

A Session A：Tuesday, August 13 13：40- or 14：55Each class will be offered twice, back to back. Time slots will be listed when you receive your symposium packet
on the first day.

A-1

Traditional Chinese Paper Cutting

Paper-cutting is a traditional art form that uses paper as a medium to capture cultural themes through cutting and carving
with scissors or knives. The art of paper-cutting encompasses a wide range of themes, such as home decoration, wishes, New
Year blessings, weddings, birthdays, and prayers. In this workshop, each participant will create two paper-cutting pieces: one
using the traditional cutting style that represents luck, happiness, and peace, and another using the Bell cutting style, which
will be designed by the presenter.
Alice Lee Oi Shan (Hong Kong)
Alice received her Bachelor of Education and Master of Arts in Music in Hong Kong. She has been ringing handbells with Ms
Emily Li since 2002 and was a member of HKHA Bell Allure Ensemble. Alice conducts her primary school's handchime andbelleplate ensembles since their establishment in 2005. She has participated in the International Handbell Symposiums since2008,and serves as the cultural workshop clinician. Additionally, Alice is passionate about choral singing and handcrafting.

A-2

Phrasing and Articulation for Handbells

Are you ready to dive into the art of phrasing and articulation? Discover the secrets of efficient body control to enhance yourbell performance with us! Join our workshop, where we'll showcase various strategies and practices to bring musicalexpressions to life through your bells. Get ready for a sprinkle of performance magic that will elevate your skills to newheights!
Seiichi Takasu (Japan)
Seiichi Takasu is a music teacher at Kanto Gakuin Junior and Senior High School. He is also the conductor of the Kanto Gakuin
Handbell Choir, and board member of the Handbell Ringers of Japan.

A-3

Reading for Korean Handbell Music

This is time to play well-known Korean songs on handbells. You will have a new experience playing a variety of songs withhandbells ,including Hymn ,folk songs and more.
Jeong Soon Park (Korea)
Jeong-soon Park currently serves as the vice president of the Korea Handbell Association and as a lecturer in the associationand holds Master’s degree in performing arts and opera conducting. She teaches handbells in elementary, middle, and highschools, and is a handbell instructor at Jeju Multicultural Arts School.
She conducted massed ringing at 2012 International Handbell Symposium in Liverpool, UK, and served as the Preparations
Committee Chairman for the 16th International Handbell Symposium in Jeju, South Korea.

A-4

Experience SINGAPORESINGAPORE, City-State-Country. PASSION MADE POSSIBLE. 42km E-W, 34km N-S, and island packed with 5.5 million people. It
is a melting pot of cultures, races, cuisines and religions.
Hear about the annual Foreign Guest Ringers Project... Hear about the Asia Pacific Handbell Festival 2025... Be prepared for2028 eventually...
Experience the people, the cultures, the music, the food, its sights and sounds, and of course, its handbells, in this EXPERIENCESINGAPORE presentation. With the future symposium coming to Singapore in the "blink of an eye", this session will showcase
our little red dot island of Singapore, thru slides, videos and oral descriptions. MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS NOT REQUIRED.

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Lyn Yap & Damien Lim (Singapore)LYN YAP is the President of the Handbell Ringers of Singapore (HRSG). Fact: Lyn was the 1st school teacher in Singapore, tostart up Singapore's 1st handbell team in schools, back in the mid-1980s. She was a ringer with Singapore's 1st handbell
group: Singapore Handbell Choir.
DAMIEN LIM is the Executive Director of the HRSG. Fact: Born into a family of musicians. His training is in percussion andYamaha Electone. If he wasn't a musician, he had wanted always to be a tour leader/guide. He loves to eat (esp: Yakiniku),
travel, and working with youths. www.damienlim.weebly.com

A-5

Folk Dances and Singing Games Across America

These dances and a little background on the dances will inform the participants about different places, early music, and a bitof culture. The class involves singing and dancing.
Kaethe Grabenhofer (USA)
Kaethe Grabenhofer has been playing handbells for over 35 years. She rang with the Alleluia Ringers at Concordia University,
Mequon, Wisconsin, USA under the direction of Dr. Behnke. Later, she rang under Dr. Behnke for 16 years with the Milwaukee
Handbell Ensemble. (MHE) Grabenhofer continued as the artistic director of MHE for 4 years. She has taken the masterconducting class with Dr. Payne, and attended 2 other International Handbell Symposiums (Australia, and Orlando). In
Wisconsin she taught (K-8) general music for the past 25 years using the Orff-Schulwerk approach and directed a children’s
handbell ensemble. As a presenter she has presented at the Illinois Music Education Conference, National Orff Conference,
Area 7 Handbell Festival Conferences, and National Handbell Seminar. For many years she performed traditional folk danceswith the Pommersche Tanzdeel Friestadt, a German dance group in Wisconsin. Her educational background includes an MA in
Music Education from the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota and a BA in education and music from Concordia University in
Wisconsin. She holds a master teacher’s license in Wisconsin, Orff Master’s certificate, Kodaly levels and is a National BoardCertified teacher. Her desire of life-long learning has taken her to Estonia, Switzerland, Austria, Africa, and China.

A-6

THE TECHNIQUE OF ENGLISH OFF TABLE RINGINGThis is a practical opportunity to learn about the traditional ‘Off Table’ English ringing technique. Participants will see how
weaving, passing, damping and other techniques are used with this method of ‘backringing’.
Sandra Winter (UK)
Sandra graduated from Trinity College of Music, London and has taught all age groups from pre-school and nursery through toadult, and been involved in school, church and community handbell ringing for fifty years. She has directed The Wandle
Ringers for thirty eight years, and is the joint conductor of the South East Region Bell Orchestra. She gives concerts,
demonstrations and talks to many groups and societies as a solo and duet ringer.She is a published composer and arranger ofhandbell music, and regularly takes classes and conducts, both in the UK and at International Symposia, where she has been
the HRGB massed ringing conductor on four occasions. Sandra was honoured to conduct Festival choirs at both the 30th and40th Anniversary celebrations of the Handbell Ringers of Japan. Sandra was the National Secretary of HRGB for sixteen years
and was conferred Honorary Life Member in 2011. She is a past Chair and current Secretary of the South East Region. Her ‘dayjob’ is with Bells of Whitechapel Ltd.

A-7

Orihana

In Japan, there is a long-standing tradition of origami and kirigami, reflecting a delicate appreciation for "paper." Combining
the art of folding, cutting, and shaping a single sheet of paper, you can create beautiful paper flower diffusers, known as
Oribana. In this workshop, you will craft your own flower cards and chopstick rests using pre-cut paper. Discover new
possibilities through the art of paper and create something uniquely beautiful. Join us and immerse yourself in the enchanting
world of Oribana!
Toshiko Koumura (Japan)
At an event led by Orihana founder Motoki Mitani, she encountered the mesmerizing world of Orihana. Captivated by thestunning, three-dimensional paper flowers, she immediately sought to become his apprentice. Through dedicatedparticipation in Mitani's workshops, she earned the "Orihana Beginner Instructor" certification. Now, she collaborates with
two other instructors to host monthly workshops in Tokyo. She also brings the beauty of Orihana to welfare facilities andintimate gatherings, passionately working to spread this unique art form.

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A-8

Canadian Folk Songs

This workshop will allow participants a first glance, and sight read, at a collection of Canadian Folk Songs arranged for
handbells/handchimes by Canadian arranger and composer, Craig Cassils. This collection was published in the Fall of 2021 by
From the Top Music Publishing Co. and features Level 2-3, 3 octaves arrangements of Canadian Folk Songs from all overCanada. Come on a journey to Canada, complete with pictures, history, geography and music!
Patsy Andrews-Vert (Canada)
Patsy Andrews-Vert, received a Bachelor of Music Education from Brandon University (Brandon MB) in 1984. She also holds an
Associate in Flute Performance from the Western Board of Music (1986). Patsy has taught students of all instrumental music
levels in both Saskatchewan and Manitoba. She recently retired from teaching in South-Central Manitoba. She is an active
clinician, adjudicator and conductor in handbells and band. Patsy is a Past-Chair of the Handbell Musicians of Canada, andPresident of the Manitoba Guild of English Handbell Ringers. She directs the Trinity Lutheran Handbells in Starbuck MB andplays with the quartet Ring Out! and the community ensemble Rochester Ringers based in Winnipeg MB.

A-9

Teaching Handbells to Individuals with Hearing Loss

Handbell and handbell ringing is a very visual art form. In this session, Wendy Cheng will do a brief presentation on how toteach ringing skills to hard of hearing and deaf individuals. The outline of the session is as follows:a) Characteristics of hearing lossb) The limitations of hearing devices in ensemble music making and the use of assistive listening devicesc) Discuss tips to overcome some of the limitations
Wendy Cheng (USA)Wendy Cheng is a fervent advocate for people with hearing loss and is an avid amateur musician. She started piano at the ageof 7, picked up the violin during her second year of college and currently plays viola. She was introduced to handbells in 2014
and started a handbell choir at the federal agency where she currently works. When not ringing or directing her handbell
choir, she enjoys taking music theory lessons at a nearby community music school. She is also the founder of a charity/online
community called Association of Adult Musicians with Hearing Loss.

A-10

Experiencing the beauty of wearing a YUKATA

Join to learn about the culture and history of Japanese clothing, and then have the chance to try on a yukata yourself. We'll
guide you through the process of selecting and preparing a yukata, as well as the basics of proper dressing. Our instructor will
carefully explain each step, and you'll receive hands-on support as you put on a yukata over your normal clothes. Please wear
light clothing for comfort. By dressing in a yukata, you'll appreciate the charm of Japanese culture and enjoy the fun of styling.
Let's learn and have fun together and open the door to a new world of Japanese tradition!
MayumiMayumi Suzuki
Suzuki (Japan)
is based in Makinohara City, Shizuoka Prefecture. She is an instructor who organizes events promoting
Japanese culture. This time, she will be providing instruction on how to wear a yukata, a traditional Japanese dress, alongside
her daughter, who is an active participant as a traditional Japanese dressmaker in Kyoto.

B Session B：Wednesday, August 14

13：40- or 14：55-

Each class will be offered twice, back to back. Time slots will be listed when you receive your symposium packet
on the first day.

B-1

Finger Weaving ~ Learning a Traditional Canadian Artform

Finger weaving or “tissage aux doigts” is an art form used mostly to create belts, sashes, straps, and other similar items
through a non-loom weaving process. Many Indigenous cultures worldwide have developed their own variations. In Canada
and specifically in Québec, it is known as “ceinture fléchée” and is easily recognizable by its signature diagonal lines orarrowhead patterns. With deep roots from the First Nations Peoples across our country literally woven with the influence ofFrench Voyageurs of the fur trade, the ceinture fléchée is a special part of our Canadian heritage. This cultural workshop
proposes to present a brief history of the artform and to invite participants to learn the basic concepts of finger weaving by
creating a friendship bracelet or bookmark.

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Emmy Okazawa-Bortolin (Canada)
Although born in Osaka, Japan, Emmy immigrated to Canada at a young age and grew up near Toronto. After high school, she
moved to Québec City to immerse herself in French. She not only became trilingual within a few months, she also studied theceinture fléchée with Master Weaver, the late Mme Véronique Hamelin. Emmy has spent most of her professional life as afrancophone and has also embraced many cultural aspects such as French-Canadian giguing and raising two bilingual sons. A
classically-trained pianist, Emmy is always fascinated in activities that involve digital dexterity (such as handbell ringing) andlooks forward to sharing her passion for finger weaving with all.

B-2

Ghibli Festival

From beloved animations to the latest Academy Award-winning masterpiece! Embark on an enchanting journey into theworld of Studio Ghibli with us, as we play the iconic music from “My Neighbor Totoro”, “Whisper of the Heart”, “Princess
Mononoke”, “Spirited Away”, “Howl's Moving Castle,”, “The Wind Rises”, and “Ponyo” together! Calling all Ghibli fans who
adore handbells – let's immerse ourselves in the magical realm of Ghibli movies through the beauty of bells!
Kazuko Okamoto (Japan)
Kazuko Okamoto, born in Kobe, graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts with a degree in composition. She has publishednumerous compositions and arrangements for handbells, with her adaptations ranging from famous classical pieces to originalcompositions, earning admiration from handbell ringers all over the world. Currently, she is the conductor for Bellringers Sara.
Also as a conductor for several teams, she organizes concerts and events, wholeheartedly enjoying handbells with fellow bellringers.

B-3

RINGING FROM NUMBER NOTATIONSIn the UK a variety of ways of writing handbell music developed, including several different number notations. These notations
are just a different form of musical code. In this class we will explore some of the number notations through hands-on ringing
of a range of traditional and modern pieces.
Martin Winter (UK)
Martin was introduced to Handbells in 1980 and his role in the early years was as an all purpose ringer in a variety of positions.
In 2000 the purchase of a 5 octave set of bells allowed him to discover and develop his real ringing passion as a bass ringer. He
rings with The Wandle Ringers and HRGB South East Region Bell Orchestra. He has directed Sanderstead All Saints Ringers, his
church handbell team, since 1997. Martin has been a member of HRGB South East region committee for over 25 years and is apast Chair. He was a member of the HRGB National Executive Committee for 16 years, and is Chair of the Organising
Committee for the 2026 Symposium.

B-4

Beautiful Island, Formosa Lovely Country, Taiwan

Enjoy the beauty of of Formosa and Taiwan. A short trip to experience the culture and scenery of Taiwan.
Bank Wu (Taiwan)
President of the Taiwan Handbell Association

B-5

Traveling Bells

Ready to dive into the captivating world of “Change-ringing” techniques? Join us for a thrilling workshop where we'll explore
this unique technique and your assigned note changes constantly while playing a single piece of music! Picture the bell you
ring as it sets off on a whimsical journey, and its musical path unfolding in the hands of fellow participants. Who knows where
it'll end up? It's an exhilarating adventure of melodies and surprises, and we'd love for you to be part of it!
Tomoko Tanimoto (Japan)
Since owning a personal 5 octave set in 1992, Tomoko Tanimoto has been active as a ringer, instructor, and arranger. Tomoko
has hosted workshops and online courses at events such as the Asia Pacific Handbell Festival, International Handbell
Symposium, HMA National Seminar, and the HRJ Online Seminar. She was invited to adjudicate in Hong Kong. Additionally, she
has been invited by the Taiwan Handbell Association to perform with her family, cherishing her “originality”in all her activities.

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B-6

Communicating Through Sounds

Join us for a delightful rhythm and sound workshop where we'll enhance our sight-reading skills and strengthen our bond as agroup! Handbells are renowned for fostering teamwork, with “communication” being a vital component as ringers engage
with each other through playing bells. We warmly welcome participants from diverse backgrounds to join us for this enrichingexperience!
Yasuko Okada (Japan)
Yasuko Okada graduated from Aichi University of the Arts, majoring in piano. She received the Gifu City Arts and Culture
Encouragement Award (Handbell) in 2013. Currently, she is a professor at the Department of Early Childhood Education at
Chubu Gakuin University. It marks the 30th anniversary since she first encountered handbells. She has participated two
International Handbell Symposiums in Japan. Additionally, she published research papers titled "Self-transformation in
Handbell Performance Experience" in 2014, "The Influence of Handbell Performance Experience on Adult Life" in 2016, and"Educational Considerations in the Practice Environment for Handbell Performance Instructors" in 2018.

B-7

Mastering Mallet TechniqueIn this course, we’ll delve into the art of playing handbells with mallets. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced
musician, this class will unlock the secrets to creating beautiful melodies and harmonies with mallets. By the end of thiscourse, you’ll be able to: 1: Understand the fundamentals of mallet technique. 2: Execute different grips and strokes
effectively. 3: Develop precision, control, and expressiveness in your malleting. 4: Apply these techniques to various musicalpieces. Registrants should bring their own mallets.
Greig Ashurst (USA)For nearly thirty years, Greig Ashurst has developed an impressive career in many facets of music, technology, and educational
philosophy across America. A native of Lafayette, Louisiana, he has served as a music educator in public and private schools
and universities in Louisiana, North Carolina, and Texas. Currently, Mr. Ashurst is Instrumental Music Director and Technology
Director at Cathedral-Carmel School where he was selected as the 2016-2017 “Teacher of the Year”, an honor for which hewas selected twice previously in Louisiana and North Carolina. Greig also serves as Youth Music and Instrumental Director andstaff arranger at Asbury UMC of Lafayette, Louisiana. Mr. Ashurst maintains a very industrious schedule as a guest
conductor/clinician, performer, and consultant throughout the United States in music and technology.

B-8

Preventing Injuries from Handbell Ringing

Handbells are widely enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults. However, they can sometimes lead to strains andinjuries. Despite several preventive measures, such as avoiding holding heavy bells by hand, injuries still occur frequently.
Therefore, it is crucial to learn about basic postures, such as proper standing techniques, to prevent typical injuries that canhappen while playing handbells. In this workshop, we will practice stretching techniques to help prevent injuries while playing.
Hidetaka Yuasa (Japan)
Hidetaka Yuasa began ringing handbells at Kanto Gakuin Junior and Senior High School, continuing his passion at O.C.C. He
graduated from the International University of Health and Welfare and obtained a license as a physical therapist. As a physicaltherapist, he proposes strategies for preventing injuries among high school, university, and other community handbell teams.
Moreover, Hidetaka has been hosting workshops in Japan for several years, incorporating stretches for warm-up andrefreshment purposes."

B-9

Explore the art of "Tsumami Zaiku"

Join us for an informal craft class where we'll explore the art of "Tsumami Zaiku", a traditional Japanese craft dating back to
the Edo period. Using scraps of kimono fabric, we'll learn how to fold and gather small pieces to create beautiful motifs
inspired by nature throughout the seasons. No experience necessary! You'll be able to take your unique creations home to use
as decorative accents or even hair accessories. Let's enjoy crafting together as we delve into the world of kimono materials
and traditional culture.
Mayumi Suzuki (Japan)
Mayumi Suzuki is based in Makinohara City, Shizuoka Prefecture. She is an instructor who organizes events promoting
Japanese culture, including tsumami kanzashi. For this workshop, she will be hosting an event where she instructs on how tomake tsumami kanzashi, with her daughter, who is actively participating as a traditional Japanese dressmaker in Kyoto.
Alongside her tsumami kanzashi activities, she occasionally holds karate classes to stay active and engaged in the community.
Let's enjoy making tsumami kanzashi together!
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B-10

How to Chime

A comprehensive and innovative class on how the Choirchimes should be used correctly, musically.
Malmark

B-11

Malmark-Maintenace

This workshop is aimed at learning how to care for handbells from Malmark. We will explain the basic structure and functionsof Malmark handbells, demonstrate daily care and maintenance methods, and introduce the recommended schedule forregular maintenance.
Malmark

C Session C：Friday, August 16

14：25- or 15：40-

Each class will be offered twice, back to back. Time slots will be listed when you receive your symposium packet
on the first day.

C-1

Origami wreath for Hina-Dolls"Hinamatsuri," also known as Girls' Day, is a traditional Japanese holiday where families decorate with "hina dolls" to wish fortheir daughters’ healthy growth and happiness. The dolls symbolize protection for girls and represent parents’ wishes for theirdaughter’s well-being.
During Hinamatsuri, it's customary to offer peach blossoms, hina-arare (sweet rice crackers), and hishi mochi (diamondshaped rice cakes). Some families also hold celebratory meals or gatherings between March 2nd and 3rd, serving dishes likechirashi sushi, sweet sake, and clam soup.
Yukiko Suzuki (Japan)
Vice-chairman of HRJ. 14th International Handbell Symposium, Massed Ringing Conductor.
Yukiko has been commissioned by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to serve as a welfare & children's committee
member and social welfare committee member for 30 years. She introduced this class at the 14th International Handbell
Symposium in Osaka and this will be the second time to offer this class.

C-2

Let's enjoy Japanese summer dance BON-ODORI with handbell music!!

BON-ODORI is a popular summer festival dance in Japan. Simple repetitive dance moves that is easy to learn by all ages along
the music creates an exciting ambience. Let's enjoy BON-ODORI, this time, with Beethoven's Ninth Symphony arranged byJohn Behnke! You will get to ring and dance in this 'FUN-tastic' class!!
Miki Nakao (Japan)
Miki Nakao graduated from the Yamaha Music Academy with a degree in Electronic Organ.He has extensive experience
performing, conducting, and teaching in Japan and abroad. He is a member of the Japan Music Education Society.Part-time
lecturer at Toyo Eiwa University.He also writes music score reviews for Seibunsha International on Facebook, and his
arrangements of "Glenn Miller Classics" and other works have been published and performed in many countries.

C-3

Handbell Cantopop

Get ready to discover the captivating world of Cantopop music, which has taken Hong Kong by storm! Experience the beautyof the unique 9-tone phonology of Cantonese, which makes Cantopop music so captivating and lyrical. Join us for an exciting
workshop where you will be introduced to a series of exclusive and unpublished Cantopop music pieces arranged by themembers of Bellaholics. You will get the chance to learn more about the background of each piece to fully immerse yourself inthe music.
Bellaholics HK (Hong Kong)
Bellaholics was founded in 2021 by a group of young handbell enthusiasts who all carry rich performing experiences bylearning in the Hong Kong Youth Handbell Ensemble under Miss Emily Li. We regularly conduct performances and post ringing
videos online to engage our audience, and the Cantopop music our members arrange are always the audience favorite.

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C-4

THE HISTORY OF BELLRINGNG IN UK

The workshop will detail the various historical stages of handbell ringing in the UK.
Keith Rowland (UK)Keith was introduced to handbells in 1980. Hamilton Ringers owned a 5 octave set of Whitechapel bells that had been cast for
the Exeter Symposium. He rang bass bells until he was appointed leader of the group. In 2000 he formed the Rowland Ringers
ensemble using a 5 octave set of Malmark bells and chimes. He is joint conductor of the South East Region Bell Orchestra. In
2008 he was appointed massed ringing conductor for HRGB at the International Symposium in Orlando, USA. He is a past Chairof the South East Region and is now Chair of HRGB, He served on the HRGB National Executive Committee for 16 years.

C-5

Line Dancing for FUN!

This will be a fun and light-hearted dancing class. We will learn several iconic line dances you might see at an American
wedding, saloon, or other celebrations. No dance experience needed, just a smile and willingness to kick up your heels.
Brenda Austin (USA)
Brenda E. Austin is a dynamic and energetic conductor, clinician and composer. She is the Music Director for the Embellish
handbell ensemble and First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids. In 2019, she joined Hope Publishing as Editor. Brenda
studied Vocal Performance at Western Michigan University and has an MM in Choral Conducting from UMKC. Dance has beena long-time hobby and opportunity for FUN.

C-6

The Art of Arranging Pop Music for Handbells

This class will explore various ways to bring popular music to the handbell medium. The class will take time to analyze different
songs, discuss what pop music would or would not work on handbells, and ways to incorporate techniques and other musicalideas.
Nick Hanson (USA)
Nick graduated from Concordia University, Irvine, CA, and soon after began teaching handbells at The Potomac School, aprivate school just outside Washington, DC where he teaches six handbell classes to students aged 9-18, as well as offers
private handbells lessons. Nick also conducts handbells at Bush Hill Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, Virginia. Nick is asought-after faculty, clinician, and conductor for workshops and events around the world having served in this role throughout
the United States and in England, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore. He was the first-ever associate conductor for the
Handbell Musicians of America (HMA) event, Distinctly Bronze in 2015; was co-conductor for the HMA All-Star Choir in 2018;and has twice lead HMA's Distinctly Teen ensemble in 2015 and 2023. Nick is also excited to announce that he has been
selected to conduct Distinctly Bronze East in 2025. Nick has written articles for the national handbell magazine Overtones, hascomposed and arranged over 100 pieces of handbell music, and is co-host of the podcast Two Tacos High: A Handbell Podcast.

C-7

Australian Animal Rounds

Australia has a great variety of very distinctive animals - the koala, echidna, kangaroo, emu, kookaburra, currawongs etc.
The sounds and actions of these animals provide the basis of this workshop - based on a book of such songs produced for theAustralian bicentenary in 1988 by Australian author and musician, Patricia Beaton. Participants will be invited to learn andpresent these very recognizable animals by singing, movement and percussion.
Kevinwood Bells (Australia)
Kevinwood Bells are an ensemble of the Kevinwood Orchestra of Eastwood - a Sydney suburb. As keen members of the HSA
they have travelled to most capital cities in Australia as well as various locations in New Zealand. They play in either off-tablestyle or - at more casual functions - they play numbered music four-in-hand. They have a junior set of members who enjoy
singing these rounds and audiences readily join in the rounds.

C-8

Just 2s and 3s: Rhythms Made Easy

Complex rhythms are easier once you realize that almost all rhythm is just a grouping of either 2 or 3. That crazy syncopated
16th-note pattern? Just groups of 2s and 3s. That awkward 7/8 time signature? Just groups of 2s or 3s. Once you can identify
these groupings, deciphering complex rhythms and time signatures becomes much easier. The instructor will supply musicpackets. Attendees should bring their own mallets.

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Brian Seemann (USA)Brian Seemann is the director of handbell ensembles at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, and the music director of
Virginia Bronze. He has been music director of the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble and the New England Ringers, and has
performed with Sonos Handbell Ensemble, Back Bay Ringers, and the Philadelphia Handbell Ensemble. Brian is also a publishedcomposer and has served as faculty, clinician, and conductor around the US as well as at several International Handbell
Symposiums. His ensembles have been invited to perform at Handbell Musicians of America National Seminar three times in
2016, 2019, and 2024. In addition to being a ringing member, he also serves on the board of Sonos Handbell Ensemble. Alongwith Nick Hanson, Brian is the co-host of Two Tacos High, a handbell podcast.

C-9

JAPANESE TEA PARTY to enjoy Japanese tea

In Japan, the term "tea" often evokes images of the esteemed Tea Ceremony, a tradition with a history spanning over 1200
years. Yet,here in Shizuoka, the heart of Japan's tea cultivation, we offer a more laid-back introduction – a one-hour seminarfilled with interesting insights and fun facts about green tea, followed by a delightful afternoon tea party. We invite you to an
enjoyable seminar where the pleasures of green tea can be appreciated in a leisurely atmosphere.
Keisuke Kimura (Japan)
Keisuke Kimura is a "senshoku," a master barista who blends and prepares Japanese tea. Having won the highest gold award
three times in Japanese tea competitions, which showcase his finesse in tea preparation, Kimura received the Fine ProductAward in the deep-steamed green tea category at the Japanese Tea Awards 2023.

C-10

Schulmerich-MaintenanceThis workshop is aimed at learning how to care for handbells from Schulmerich. We will explain the basic structure andfunctions of Schulmerich handbells, demonstrate daily care and maintenance methods, and introduce the recommended
schedule for regular maintenance.
Scheulmerich

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MIRAI Choir（Symposium Choir）※Please note that if you select to join the MIRAI Choir, you will NOT be able to attend ANY workshop classes.
※The MIRAI Choir will meet for six hours in total (ALL WORKSHOP Sessions)※Each person will need to purchase music that will be used. Titles to be announced at a later date.
※Bell assignments will be decided/allocated at the first rehearsal.

S-1

MIRAIクワイア Intermediate1

Emily Li (HAHK)
Emily Li stands as a globally acclaimed handbell virtuoso hailing from Hong Kong. She is an accomplished conductor, composer,
soloist, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Her fascination with handbells ignited in 1986, sparking a deep passion
for this heavenly instrument. Since 2000, Emily has dedicated years to honing her handbell dexterities in the United States
under the guidance of esteemed masters in the field. She is the Artistic Director of the Hong Kong Handbell Academy, Hong
Kong Youth Handbell Ensemble and Gloves Handbell, Chairperson of the Handbell Association of Hong Kong, and the Principal
Guest Conductor of the Ministry of Bellz in Singapore.

S-2

MIRAIクワイア Intermediate2

Carlos Rivera (HMA)
Regarded as one of Puerto Rico's foremost handbell masters, Carlos has had a fruitful career of more than thirty years as
director of various handbell programs in Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, and Colombia. Carlos
received a Bachelor of Arts with a major in education and music from the University of Puerto Rico. He later received his
master's degree in music education with an emphasis on choral music at Florida State University's College of Music in
Tallahassee, Florida. He is an active handbell clinician and has inspired many people to become involved in handbell ringing
and musicianship. He describes himself as a handbell missionary, in his belief that “there are so many people who have notbeen able to be in contact with this wonderful instrument; once they do, they’ll fall in love with it”. He served two years as an
at-large member of HMA National Board and now is the HMA Area 4 Chair-Elect which serves Georgia, South Carolina, Florida
in the USA, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico and de USA Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. Carlos currently works as Assistant Dean ofStudent Affairs, music professor and choral conductor at the University of Puerto Rico-Carolina.

S-3

MIRAIクワイア Advanced1

Toshikazu Yoshida (HRJ)
After graduating from Toho Gakuen University’s Faculty of Music, Orchestra Research Student Conducting Department, he has
been teaching the handbell choir at Kinjo Gakuin University since September 1987. Currently, he conducts and teaches as themusic director of PRIME (Handbell Team) and the director of the Kinjo Gakuin University Orchestra and Kinjo Gakuin Handbell
Choir. Director of the Handbell Ringers of Japan. He is a visiting professor at Kinjo Gakuin University. He has been selected as
the Massed Ringing Conductor at the International Handbell Symposium in Edmonton (5th), Orlando (13th), Nashville (20th).
He has also been invited by the HMA to conduct the Distinctly Bronze West in 2016 and the College-Ring-In 2022.

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MIRAIクワイア Advanced2

Hirotaka Arai (HRJ)
Hirotaka Arai has conducted the Hakuo University Handbell Choir since 1988. The choir has regularly attended theInternational Handbell Symposium and has been chosen to perform at the Invitation Concert in Liverpool representing Japan
as well as in Jeju. He also was selected as the Massed Ringing Director for the 9th Symposium held in Birmingham, UK. The
Hakuo University Handbell Choir has been touring in many parts of the world including a tour in Hawaii every year for over 25
years and has received awards from the mayor of Honolulu and governor of Hawaii. They have multiple recordings of CDs andDVDs which are favorites to the handbell lovers all over the world. His contributions as a clinician for the HRJ workshops andalso to handbell arrangements are immense. A very active musician and opera singer, he holds an opera every year in Oyama
city where he resides. He also holds handbell classes and directs many community groups in the city.

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