Capital Ringers to perform Dec. 9 at Salem UMC in Selbyville

The melodic sounds of handbells will be in the air as the Capital Ringers take the stage for a Holiday Classics concert at 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 9, at Salem United Methodist Church in Selbyville. Brought to the community by the Selbyville Public Library in partnership with Salem United Methodist Church, Capital Ringers will be performing a concert that will get attendees into the holiday spirit and amaze the senses as they deliver their unique, percussive performance.

Founded in 2004 by Artistic Director Linda Simms, the English handbell ensemble combines handbells, percussion instruments, audience interaction, a touch of humor and a visual experience as they create this year's concert. It is an all-ages show that includes many holiday favorites from "White Christmas" to "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."

"We've had a request for several years for us to bring Capital Ringers to the community, and we are so fortunate that we are able to offer this free concert to our patrons again this year, "said Library Director Kelly Kline. "They are an excellent bunch of musicians." Kline notes that there is an intricacy to the bells performance. Each note is precise, and unifying the sound is an artistic venture in timing.

Because of the physical nature of playing handbells, the show is as fascinating to watch as it is to listen to. Most people are surprised by the quality of the bells, and the diversity of sound they provide. It is just this quality that makes the show so appealing to a wide variety of age groups. One might say it's perfect for "kids from 1 to 92."

The Salem Center holds 150 people, and last year the event filled to capacity. This year, due to limited seating, all attendees must have a ticket to enter. Tickets are free and can be picked up at the Selbyville Public Library. There is a limit of four tickets per person. Distribution will be on a first-come, first-served basis. No ticket reservations will be permitted.