In February 2007, Joan Fossum and Mary Divers organized the Granite State Ringers (GSR), New Hampshire's only elite handbell choir.
Their vision was to offer committed handbell musicians the opportunity to learn and perform challenging music for audiences all over New Hampshire.
Since then, GSR has expanded its mission to include offering education programs for youth and adults and using its talents to support local and international groups in need, from the NH Food Bank to the Ukrainian Red Cross.
We rehearse 2-3 times a month in our new studio in Concord, coming from communities throughout New Hampshire and northern Massachusetts. Many GSR members direct or ring in their church bell choirs or small handbell ensembles, as well.
We perform on five octaves of Malmark handbells, six octaves of Malmark handchimes, and four octaves of Schulmerich Handbells. We are especially proud to have world-premiered new pieces by some of the handbell world’s most beloved composers.