While brainstorming for Christmas last November, the Chapel Ridge activity staff realized they had to think outside of the box. Traditional Christmas caroling was out of the question, as guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Health restricts singing during group activities due to the increased risk of possible spread of COVID-19. That’s when Becky Card, activity assistant, shared her experience with a bell choir program that she uses for the children’s choir in her church.
The new bell group at Chapel Ridge started out small, though it was so well received that the facility purchased a second set of bells so that everyone who wished to participate could.
“Often folks are hesitant to try something new, so we encouraged them to try just one song, just a two minute song, and once they tried, they enjoyed it and agreed to join the choir,” said Lisa Geitner, activity assistant.
The choir started out with classic carols such as “Jingle Bells,” “Away in a Manger,” “Joy to the World,” “O Holy Night,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and one of their favorites, “Feliz Navidad.” Now that the holiday has passed, they are adding to their repertoire Pachelbel’s “Canon in D,” “How Great Thou Art,” “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” “Edelweiss,” “America the Beautiful,” “My Wild Irish Rose” “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and many more.
The group practices weekly, and they look forward to putting a recital together that will be recorded by staff to be shared with friends and family of the Bradford Ecumenical Home, hopefully in time for Memorial Day.
While practicing, a CD is played with the melody while Card counts out the rhythm of 4 and holds up cards with the color of bell to ring out the chords.
“It’s the best feeling to watch their eyes concentrating and looks of accomplishment as the music is created that it’s hard not to be distracted from counting,” said Card.
Here is what Chapel Ridge participants say:
“Residents really enjoy the bell choir — it is interesting, fun and mentally stimulating.” — Jean Hutton.
“It is wonderful; ringing the bells is easy, productive and fun. When we are ringing I feel so joyful.”
— Ann Pierotti
“I like to play — the bells make me feel so good.” — Bonnie Walb
Becky Greenberg, director of activities, discussed the benefits of the choir, including the exercise they are getting in their arms and while tapping their toes, comradery and mental stimulation.
“We certainly miss singing and can’t wait for the day we can do that again, but in the meantime, this choir is a great way to keep music in our homes,” she added.
