Enjoy the traditional sounds of Christmas at Hudsonville Library! Michigan handbell duo Larry and Carla will be back for the third time with a program of handbell duets. Ringing in the Holidays will be the season finale of the library’s Friends Present series for 2021.

Larry and Carla are West Michigan’s smallest handbell choir. They met on a website for handbell musicians when Larry lived in California and Carla lived in England. Their shared love of handbells led to a 3-year long-distance relationship, and eventually to a visa process and marriage. They moved from California to Holland in the summer of 2016.

Larry and Carla will again be demonstrating the art of playing handbells using the traditional “four in hand” technique. Their program will include some well-known carols, as well as some less-familiar holiday tunes from around the world. You’ll hear music played on a set of of handchimes, and a restored set of antique Taylor bells from England. Larry and Carla will talk about the history of these beautiful instruments, and the techniques involved in playing them. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.

You’ll be able to enjoy refreshments and social time as we celebrate Christmas at Hudsonville Library. We look forward to welcoming you to this popular annual event, presented by the Friends of the Gary Byker Memorial Library.