PLEASE CONSIDER A FINANCIAL DONATION TO HELP FUND OUR TRIP TO THE INTERNATIONAL HANDBELL SYMPOSIUM!!

This summer Strikepoint is planning an extraordinary journey to Japan, where we’ll be participating in the 21st International Handbell Symposium in Hamamatsu. This project, of course, comes with substantial expenses. Transporting eleven people, along with multiple octaves of handbells and chimes, as well as a lot of other necessary equipment, entails significant cost. We have been raising funds for this since our last international tour to Sweden in 2016 and right now have about 80% of what is needed. This trip is far more expensive than we had originally planned, and that’s why we’re reaching out for your support.

In Hamamatsu there will be 700 handbell ringers, all playing the same music at the same time, with directors from each of the member countries leading the massed group. Plus breakout sessions for handbell techniques and international culture.

Strikepoint has been fortunate to attend five previous international events, beginning with the 2nd International Handbell Symposium in Gotemba, Japan back in 1986, and most recently in Orlando, Florida, in 2008. Reflecting on those experiences, we recognize their profound impacts. They were more than just a trip; they were transformative journeys that extended far beyond borders. This upcoming symposium isn’t merely about a musical excursion; it’s an opportunity to foster connections through the universal language of music and strengthen our bonds with communities worldwide.

Not only are we participating in the mass ringing at Symposium, Strikepoint has been selected as the only group to represent the U.S. in a televised concert for charity. This is a huge honor.

Upon our return to Duluth, we are eager to share the wealth of knowledge and inspiration gained from this experience with our church, local community, audiences, and fellow ringers. Your contribution will not only assist us in covering the costs of our travels but will also enrich the depth and breadth of what Strikepoint has to offer.

We hope you’ll consider making a contribution as we embark on this journey to Japan, carrying the spirit of harmony and camaraderie through the art of handbell ringing.