Do you hear the ringing of the bells?

The Bells on Temple Square, a hand bell choir comprised of 28 people, is currently taking applications and hosting auditions.

The group is specifically searching for individuals capable of playing the larger bells. Many spots are open because a number of those previously involved are leaving the group out of necessity.

Candidates must  be active LDS churchgoers between the ages of 20 and 45 and live within 100 miles of Temple Square. Musical experience is necessary as the group not only accompanies the Mormon Tabernacle Choir but also performs solo concerts.

“We have two or three performances on our own, two or three performances on broadcasts and we are also included in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas program,” said Director Tom Waldron in recent Daily Universe article.

With consistent weekly rehearsals as well as involvement in numerous performances, individuals must have adequate time to commit to the position. It requires both dedication and skill, because each bell size requires different techniques and is more challenging to master than many imagine.

“It’s more fast-paced than I thought it would be,” said Natasha Humphrey in a recent Deseret News article. “It’s like playing piano music for 20 fingers.”

For more information or to fill out an application, visit www.MormonTabernacleChoir.org or call 801-240-3221. After applying, qualified individuals will be assigned an audition date and time. An audition may include a written examination and a performance portion in which hopefuls perform with current members of the hand bell choir.