Portsmouth Community Concerts presents Virginia Handbell Consort ~ Advanced Community Handbell Group

     Formed in the fall of 1996, the Virginia Handbell Consort became the first community handbell ensemble in the Hampton Roads area. Their auditioned musicians perform on handbells, hand chimes, and a variety of other percussion instruments.  Under the direction of Al Reese, the Virginia Handbell Consort displays a stunning demonstration in the art of English handbell ringing, an art that is beautiful to hear as well as fascinating to watch. Their concert repertoire is a mix of sacred, classic, contemporary, show tunes, and big band swing designed to showcase their unique instrument. Part of their mission is to demonstrate to audiences that while handbells are a part of the holiday season’s traditions, they are not limited to holiday performances.  They are a year-round source of entertainment. Some notable performances include Kennedy Center’s Millennium