David M. Harris has been the director of The Raleigh Ringers since January of 1990, when he was instrumental in the formation of the group. Under his leadership, The Raleigh Ringers have performed across much of the United States; in France, England and Canada; on International Television on the “Hour of Power” program; on PBS specials across 250+ PBS stations in 45 states; as a showcase choir for the Handbell Musicians of America National Seminar and Area Festivals; with the North Carolina and Virginia Symphony Orchestras; and as special guest performers at the Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, New York.

David has served The Handbell Musicians of America in several capacities: as All-Star Conductor, Crescendo Conductor, Ringing Track Conductor, Instructor for the National Seminar, North Carolina State Chairman, and as Area III Treasurer. He chaired the HMA national committee that planned the first Community/Professional Handbell Choir event, Pinnacle 2000, held in Las Vegas. He was elected in March 2023 to a six-year term on the HMA National Board of Directors. In July 2023, David was awarded Honorary Life Membership in HMA, the highest award presented by the organization.

David has studied conducting privately with Dr. William A. Payn at Bucknell University and has led well over 200 handbell festivals and workshops in 39 states as well as in England, Singapore, Puerto Rico, Canada, Hong Kong and the Caribbean. He has also been the primary handbell clinician for several denominational music events, including Montreat (NC), Lake Junaluska (NC), Lutheridge (NC), Mo-Ranch (TX), Massanetta (VA) and the National Association of Pastoral Musicians (KY).

David has taken on a position as adjunct professor at Meredith College in Raleigh, where he leads the Meredith College Ringers. He also conducts the educational groups sponsored by The Raleigh Ringers, the Millbrook and Atlantic Ringers.