Director Kendra Bates is preparing her hand chime players for the morning worship service at Queen City Congregational Methodist Church.The players are, from top left, Elizabeth Hazel, Kathy Harper, Lesley Dotson, Cathie Maley, Pam Shirley, Holly Holmes,
How can it be that such small, hand-held instruments produce spiritual meditation? Perhaps it is because of the way they are played.The Queen City chimers above are, from left, Cathie Maley, Pam Shirley and Holly Holmes.They hold their musical instruments
When performing familiar hymns on the chimes, the expressions of the players are earnest.The Queen City Methodist players above are, from left, Elizabeth Hazel, Kathy Harper, Lesley Dotson, Cathie Maley, Pam Shirley, Holly Holmes, Margaret Thomas, Martha
‘Chime in’ in Queen City
The chimes rang out on a recent Sunday morning at the Queen City Congregational Methodist Church. It was during the morning worship service, and while the chime sounds were too soft to be heard outside in the neighborhood, they were part of the devotional worship service. Nine careful chime ringers produced a symphony of sounds for the congregation.
Hand chimes are musical instruments played by striking metal forks with a rubber ball. They are a blend of technology and tradition because the first chime instruments go back to Southeast Asia and China thousands of years ago. The split-tube instrument would be made from bamboo.
For the Queen City Methodist Church, the choir’s chime work produced familiar songs with a spirit leading to contemplation and meditation. The blend may be of technology and tradition, but one must add dedication as well, for the nine ringers had practiced and were concentrating. No smiles.
Chimes themselves are not mentioned in the Bible, but wind is a symbol for the Holy Spirit. Such wind and spirit moves and speaks in ways that can be heard even if not seen. And so, the Queen City Methodist Church chime players gave familiar hymns while the congregation listened attentively.
When compared to hand bells, chimes are less expensive and lighter, making them more suitable for school youth, church or senior groups. Their performance promotes teamwork because chimes are played individually rather than in unison.
The Queen City Methodist chime instruments were something of a special find. They were discovered in the church and not being used. Director Kendra Bates got the chimes out and the group together and began teaching the music. The chimers now play on special occasions.
“The chimes are special to us. It’s something our members can participate in and an opportunity to serve others. The chime members have even formed a group of friends and do things together,” said pastor Jeff Dotson.
“And others may us join if they wish,” said the pastor’s wife and chime member Lesley Dotson. She was asking others to “chime in,” if they wish.