It is priced at just one-third of the cost of traditional English handbells.
KASHIWA, Japan–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The handbells, born out of crowdfunding, are finally available for sale!
The English handbells have traditionally been expensive instruments, making it difficult for enthusiasts to own. Due to the challenge of individual ownership and the lack of practice environments, the spread of the instruments and the development of performers have been slow.
To address this issue, Kanade Music Planning Co., Ltd. (Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture) has spent over two and a half years developing Prologue, a set of practice handbells, which is now available for purchase.
The retail price for a two-octave set (25 bells, C5–C7), which includes a storage case and three performance mats, is 770,000 yen (tax included). Compared to conventional English handbells of the same range, this product is available at approximately one-third of the price.
As a launch promotion, Prologue will be available for 700,000 yen for a limited time. Only seven sets will be available at this special price. Since Prologue is produced on a made-to-order basis once a year, the order deadline is April 30. Orders will be closed once the limited quantities are sold out.
Features of Prologue
- The casting is made of solid brass, making it highly durable and resistant to impact. It will not dent unless deliberately struck with a hammer or other hard object. The weight is designed to be similar to that of conventional handbells.
- Simple construction allows users to easily assemble and disassemble the bells. Maintenance costs are also affordable.
- When performing a four-in-hand technique, the aluminum grip may produce a metallic sound. To prevent this, users can wrap grip tape (such as those used for tennis rackets) around the handle. During Prologue Completion Commemorative Concert held in February, performers used grip tape for four-in-hand playing. The grip allows for both overlapping and through-grip playing styles.
- A video guide for daily care, polishing, and maintenance is currently in production.
- Beginners and those aiming to improve can take video lessons through our website for online lesson, “Kanade”.
At the beginning of Prologue Completion Commemorative Concert held on February 21, 2025, Michiko Fujita, an English handbell soloist and the head of the development project, gave a demonstration performance of the Prologue sound. This was followed by a talk session with the development team, where members shared their experiences working on the project. The concert concluded with a world-first collaboration performance featuring the English handbell soloist and two pianos.
The live performance of the final piece, “Banri Ikkū,” is available on major music streaming services starting March 17.
Contacts
Kanade Music Planning Co., Ltd.
Prologue Development Office
Person in Charge: Michiko Fujita
TEL: +81-(0)80-9322-7235
FAX: +81-(0)47-315-2341
Email: [email protected]
https://kanade-ongaku.com
