Area handbell ensemble to compete internationally

A Reno handbell ensemble is heading to Vancouver, British Columbia, next month to help represent the United States in the 17th annual International Handbell Symposium.

But to make it to the competition on July 26-31, the nonprofit must raise money to cover travel costs and participation fees.

“We’ve never been to an international symposium before. It’s an honor and a privilege, but it’s a lot of work and worry, particularly when you have to raise the money to go in addition to learning all the music,” said Barb Walsh, a retired music teacher who heads the group.

Formed in 1996, Tintabulations is comprised of 15 local musicians performing on 120 hand bells and chimes. Its members are college students, music teachers, professionals from other walks of life and retirees.

Members are from Carson City, Dayton, Fallon, Reno, Sparks, Lake Tahoe and Bishop. The international competition will be a first for the ensemble.

Barb Cote, the group’s public relations representative and secretary, said the group is $12,000 away from its fundraising goal.

To make a donation, go to tintabulations.com, or contact Walsh at 775-750-8119 or Barbagehr@att.net or tintabulations@gmail.com.

Before heading to the international symposium, Tintabulations is presenting a free series of concerts titled “In Times and Places.”

Area performances are planned at 1:30 p.m. June 26 at First United Methodist Church, 412 E. Musser St. in Carson City, and at 7 p.m. July 17 at First Baptist Church, 485 E. Main St. in Fernley.

Other performances are planned in Reno, Bishop, Lake Tahoe and other locations. For a complete schedule, go to http://tintabulations.com.

For more information, go to the group’s website, or find Tintabulations Handbell Ensemble on Facebook.