The Milwaukee LGBTQ+ Handbell Ringers (MQHR) is a community-based handbell ensemble founded in June 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. To the best of our knowledge, we follow the Back Bay Ringers (Boston, MA; Griff Gall, Director), as the second community-based handbell ensemble in the U.S. specifically founded by and for the LGBTQ+ community. We're thrilled to share this distinction with Ring Out Minnesota (Minneapolis–St. Paul, MN; Logon Olson, Director), which also came into being last summer.

If you’re in the Milwaukee, WI area, know how to read music, and support the rights of and care about creating affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ folks, please join us!

Mission Statement

Milwaukee LGBTQ+ Handbell Ringers affirms the identities of its members, educates the community about music, handbells, and inclusivity, and brings joy to both its ringers and the wider community through performances.

Core Values

Community

MQHR bring together musicians from the LGBTQ+ community and beyond through performances, social events, and outreach. The ensemble performs in venues that affirm and support LGBTQ+ individuals and partners with arts, advocacy, and community organizations that create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people. We also prioritize scheduling that supports the ringers' personal and community commitments.

Joy

MQHR strives to make beautiful, profound, and joyous music while creating a welcoming and fun environment for both ringers and audiences. We also enjoy participating in social activities outside of rehearsals, fostering camaraderie among members.

Inclusion

MQHR offers a space for adult musicians of any background, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation to express their authentic selves through collaborative music-making. We  oppose discrimination in any form, particularly against LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.

Performance

MQHR aims for artistic and musical excellence, performing pieces from a wide range of genres. Our repertoire is chosen to reflect the abilities and lives of their members.

Education

MQHR is committed to fostering a love of music and justice, bringing live performances and discussions to the LGBTQ+ community and the broader Milwaukee area. We aim to tell the untold stories of their members, their ensemble, and the LGBTQ+ community, while increasing exposure to the art of handbell music.

By embodying these values and mission, the Milwaukee LGBTQ+ Handbell Ringers strive to create an inclusive space where music, community  and education thrive, celebrating diversity and creativity while making meaningful contributions to both the LGBTQ+ and greater Milwaukee communities.  MQHR seeks to take their place in the long and rich history of queer art and artists. In that sense—and perhaps out of necessity—MQHR  embraces our identity with pride.

Digital Resources Referenced

Back Bay Ringers: https://backbayringers.org/

Ring Out Minnesota: https://www.ringoutmn.org/home

Over the Rainbow

Our inaugural concert.

Wednesday, August 28, 2024, 7:00 pm, Memorial Lutheran Church, 7701 N. Green Bay Avenue, Glendale, WI

Holiday Harmony

With the Concord Chamber Orchestra

December 7, 2024, 7:00 pm, Basilica of St. Josaphat, 2333 S 6th St, Milwaukee, WI

Ringing Queens: A Pop Concert

May 17, 2025, 7:00 PM, Memorial Lutheran Church, 7701 N. Green Bay Avenue, Glendale, WI

May 18, 2025, 3:00 PM, ZaoMKe Church, 2219 E. Kenwood Blvd, Milwaukee WI

Darling, get your glitter ready—We close out our very first season with “Ringing Queens: A Pop Concert,” and it’s giving showtunes, sequins, and full-on fabulousness!  This concert is a handbell-powered love letter to queer joy and pop culture. Expect bops from Broadway, Hollywood glam, ABBA gold, old blue eyes Sinatra, Disney sparkle, Muppet mischief, and even a colonial-era surprise. It’s loud, proud, and delightfully campy—in other words, everything you never knew you needed from a handbell concert!

How do I become a ringer with MQHR?

Membership in MQHR depends on the needs of the ensemble. If you're interested in playing with us, please fill out the Information Form [here]. If we have an opening for a ringer, we'll contact you to meet with the artistic director and participate in a trial. If there isn't an opening at the moment, we may ask if you'd like to be added to our list of prospective ringers.  If you are interested in playing with MQHR please fill out the Information Form found here. 

When, where, and how often does MQHR rehearse?

We rehearse regularly on Wednesday nights from 7:00-9:15 p.m. at Memorial Lutheran Church, ELCA, 7701 N. Green Bay Avenue, Milwaukee, WI. Memorial Lutheran is a welcoming congregation that affirms LGBTQ+ individuals. Rehearsals are an essential part of our group, and we encourage you to attend regularly to ensure the ensemble remains cohesive and effective.

When, where, and how often does MQHR perform?

MQHR performs three major concerts each year, typically in August, early December, and mid-May. These concerts are generally held on Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons at various venues throughout Milwaukee. Additionally, we perform ad hoc concerts at venues and times determined by the concert sponsors. For example, oin August 2024, we performed at the installation of the Black Nite Rising historic marker.

What instruments do we play?

We play English handbells, which are tuned bells held by a plastic handle. These bells are crafted from bronze (copper and tin) and are tuned to produce a predominant fundamental and 12th sound. MQHR plays on two sets of Malmark handbells:

• A 4-octave set (14 ringers needed) on loan from Memorial Lutheran Church.

• A 2-octave set (7 ringers needed) on loan from Milwaukee Public Schools.

We also occasionally incorporate other musicians into our performances.

What kind of group is MQHR?

MQHR is a community handbell ensemble, and while we typically rehearse and perform at a church, we primarily perform secular music at AGEHR levels 3 and 4 difficulty. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all, regardless of faith or background.

Is MQHR political?

In a time when the existence of LGBTQ+ people, especially for youth and those who fall under the trans umbrella, is being actively challenged, and when the basic promise of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” is being denied to so many, MQHR echoes the chant first raised by ACT UP during the AIDS crisis nearly 40 years ago: “We’re here! We’re queer! Get used to it!” Or to put it musically, as the amazing composer Abbie Betinis wrote in her anthem for Justice Choir (MN): “Resilience. We are strong. Shoulder to shoulder, keep moving on.”

Digital Resources Referenced

ACT UP: https://actupny.com/

Justice Choir: https://www.justicechoir.org/#home

What is MQHR's attendance policy?

As a volunteer organization, MQHR expects its members to attend regular rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances. Your attendance ensures the group’s cohesion. If you must miss a rehearsal, please contact the Artistic Director as far in advance as possible. If attendance becomes an issue, the Artistic Director may ask you not to participate in a performance.

What should I expect at rehearsals?

Rehearsals are a mix of professionalism and fun! The Artistic Director keeps the atmosphere relaxed but expects ringers to maintain focus and respect. Arriving on time is crucial; please enter quietly if you’re late. We expect ringers to bring a pencil to mark their music, and any helpful comments or questions are welcome. Conversations unrelated to music should be minimized to keep rehearsals efficient.

What is my commitment to MQHR?

Before each season, we try to confirm which concerts ringers can commit to. If your availability changes, please inform the Artistic Director as soon as possible. If you plan to leave MQHR permanently, please notify the Artistic Director in advance.

What do we wear for performances?

The dress code for performances is concert black:

• Long-sleeved black dress shirt

• Long black pants, skirt, or dress

• Black socks or hose

• Black shoesShoulders must be covered to ensure proper bell dampening. 

For some concerts, the dress may be more casual at the discretion of the Artistic Director.

What should I expect on performance days?

Music will be provided by the Artistic Director or Librarian at the first rehearsal for each concert. We perform from original or photocopied music, and all music must be returned after each concert.

What should I expect on concert dates?

Arrive at least 2 hours before the concert to set up, do a final run-through, and organize your music. Concert doors open 30 minutes before the performance, and the Artistic Director strives to start on time. Afterward, we often have an informal reception for musicians and the audience.

How can I support MQHR?

You can support MQHR by sharing information about our performances, reaching out to potential donors or sponsors, or helping with volunteer needs at concerts. We rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses to continue thriving, and we encourage you to help spread the word and build our community.

We remain deeply moved by the many individuals and organizations, both near and far, who have reached out to support them financially, artistically, and emotionally. We feel your love, and are full of gratitude.

Use our Ziffy link:  Donate Here 

Send a check to our mailing address:

Memorial Lutheran Church

7701 N. Green Bay Avenue 

Glendale, WI 53209

Needs

• c. $8,000 to fund the refurbishment of our instruments, including new springs and clapper heads.

• c. $115 per piece of music.  Handbell sheet music generally runs between $4 and $8 dollars per copy and we need 15 copies.  Shipping is c. $10.  A concert is about 10 -12 pieces, and thus, costs us c. $1300 per concert for music alone.

• $105 Clapper assembly for the bell G5, https://www.malmark.com/product/bronze-handbell-clapper-assemblies/

• $100 Four inch regular handbell pad. We are short one pad and are currently using blankets. https://www.malmark.com/product/4-regular-handbell-pads/

• $1.50 each, Handbell restraining springs.  We need about 20. https://www.malmark.com/product/handbell-restraining-springs/

Wish List

• $13, 925 Fifth octave handbells add on set https://www.malmark.com/product/fifth-octave-handbells-add-on-with-cases/

• $4,775 Four octave set of choir chimes https://www.malmark.com/product/49-note-choirchime-set/

President/Artistic Director – Joseph Dominic 

(he/they)

Joe's journey into music began at an early age, learning to play the piano as a child and growing up immersed in church music. He participated in choirs and sometimes accompanied services, fostering a deep connection to music and performance. Over the years, Joe studied piano, pipe organ, percussion, and voice with several private instructors, building a broad foundation in music.  In 1987, Joe earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Theory and Composition from Illinois State University, where he studied under Panamanian composer Roque Cordero and percussionist David Collier. He further expanded his expertise by studying organ at the graduate level for four years in Saint Joseph College’s summer program in Rensselaer, Indiana.   Joe spent many years serving as a full-time church musician, during which time he first began working with handbell ensembles. Most of Joes handbell experience has been in conducting and leading these groups, a passion that has shaped his career.  In 2005, Joe shifted focus to education, earning certification in special education from the Milwaukee Teacher Education Center and a Master’s degree in Education from Mount Mary University. He now teaches special education full-time. Although his main profession is education, Joe continues to serve in church music on a part-time basis. He is especially proud to direct this exceptional group of musicians,  as we explore what it means for queer and ally people to make music together!

You can get in touch with Joe through the organizational email below or if you’re interested in joining the group, by filling out the "Information Form" at the bottom of this web page.

Treasurer – Alan Jornalian

(he/him)

Al rings with Milwaukee LGBTQ+ Handbell Ringers because learning to read handbell music and play handbells are great mental exercise and bring with them huge feelings of accomplishment. The members of our group have offered lots of support and friendship throughout the learning process. Though Al had sung in church choirs when young, he didn’t get into playing in music until after he retired and took guitar and piano lessons offered by UW-Madison’s School of Music. Then, this past Christmas, he and his partner Joe attended a Christmas Eve liturgy on Washington Island that included a performance by a handbell choir. Impressed by how much fun the handbell ringers appeared to be having, Al later decided to locate a handbell group in southern Wisconsin and was happy to discover Milwaukee LGBTQ+ Handbell Ringers and to find they had openings for new members.

Secretary – Kari Zeuschner

(she/her)

Kari grew up within the church. She began change-ringing tower bells at the age of three. At the age of eight; she began learning piano, chimes, carillon bells, and handbells. In High School, she lettered in Cross Country, Drama, and Music. Throughout her life, she has played several instruments and has been a part of several vocal choirs.   After enduring an injury, she took several years away from music. Kari has been on a journey to regain her mastery of the cherished art of ringing.  She’s a mother of two, a fly fisher, an avid bird nerd, active in the recovery communities, and tries to bring her enthusiasm and respect for the story of our souls to everything that she does. 

Ringer at Large– Elizabeth Krahn 

(she/her)

Elizabeth is a dedicated high school English teacher in Milwaukee with a deep passion for inspiring young minds through literature and writing. With a commitment to fostering creativity and critical thinking, she strives to create an engaging classroom environment where students can develop both their academic and personal skills. Outside of the classroom, Elizabeth enjoys traveling and creating lasting memories with her son, often seeking new adventures and fun experiences. A lifelong music enthusiast, Elizabeth finds joy in singing, attending concerts, and playing musical instruments, embracing the power of music as an integral part of her life. As an active member of the LGBTQ+ community, Elizabeth is a strong advocate for inclusivity, acceptance, and diversity, striving to promote these values in all her endeavors. She is also passionate about giving back to her community, frequently volunteering and finding ways to contribute to making the world a better place.

External Board Member –Pastor Lester Spies

(he/him)

Lester has been blessed to serve at Memorial Lutheran Church since 2017. Before moving to Wisconsin in 2002, he served parishes in New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and his home state of Texas. With experience in urban, suburban, and country settings, Pastor Lester brings a well-rounded and diverse perspective to his ministry and leadership.  In addition to his service at Memorial Lutheran Church, Pastor has a deep commitment to community and family. He is married to Dr. Barbara Spies, a former Business and Communication faculty member at Cardinal Stritch University. After Stritch closed its doors, Dr. Spies transitioned to a position as the Director of Mission Services and Pastoral Care at Felician Village in Manitowoc.  Pastor Lester and Dr. Spies have four children—Ryan, Anna, Kristen, and Michelle—who each have found their own path in the world of social sciences, with the children also developing a keen interest in math and the natural sciences. This blend of disciplines often leads to rich, thought-provoking family conversations and a constant exchange of ideas that inspire lifelong learning.