About Us

Joyful Sound is an advanced, auditioned community handbell choir based in the greater Indianapolis, Indiana area. Founded in 1999 by director June Hannah and a group of ringers looking for a musical challenge, our mission is to promote the art of English handbell ringing through performance, education, and community outreach.​

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Joyful Sound is a member choir in Handbell Musicians of America and regularly participates in Area 5, national and international festivals. Joyful Sound has been honored to play the opening concert at Area 5 festivals twice, most recently in South Bend in 2023.

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We ring 6 octaves of Schulmerich handbells and 6 octaves of Malmark chimes.

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Following founding director June Hannah's retirement at the close of Joyful Sound's 26th season, Rhonda Blacklock joins the group as director for its 27th.

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In the spirit of joyful song, Joyful Sound strives to:

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• Promote the diverse art of handbell ringing in Central Indiana.

• Develop educational opportunities for youth and adults to learn the art of handbell ringing.

• Participate in handbell festivals, workshops, and retreats for the purpose of continuously improving our ringing skills and technique.

• Ring a wide variety of sacred and secular music.

• Challenge ourselves to grow musically, spiritually, and professionally in a creative, caring and nurturing atmosphere.

• Serve our community and choir with professionalism, pride and respect.