A group of handbell ringers and singers celebrated their longstanding history through a recent reunion.
The Stonewall Carillons formed out of the Stonewall Centennial School choirs in the fall of 1973 led by music teacher and director Olga Friesen. They received support from families who formed the group Parents Interested in Music.
Over the years, the Stonewall Carillons performed at churches, schools, festivals, fairs and community events across Manitoba and northwest Ontario. In 1974, they tied for first place in Mayor Stephen Juba’s Search for Talent.
Before long, the Stonewall Carillons’ fame and acclaim extended beyond local audiences. They performed in a National Film Board film called Musicanada about music in Canada, and they also created an Easter special for CKY TV called The Passion of Christ.
After that, they had the opportunity to tour Canada, the United States and Europe. Their music was featured in two albums: Sing and Ring: Stonewall Carillons and Chorus and Spread Joy.
Former Stonewall resident Carolyn O’Neill was one of the original members who met up with her former bandmates for a reunion in late August.
“The music was very unique as we played handbells and sang. The handbells were played for stand-alone pieces or as accompaniment to vocal selections,” she said.
“For the age of the participants — some were 10 years old when we began — the music was challenging, often with two, three or even four parts. The genres of music were religious, popular, musical theatre and classical. The music was uplifting, positive, contemplative, spiritual.”
The number of participants fluctuated over the years between seven and 15 members, depending on time and circumstances.
“The core group for the longest period of time was about 10 girls. Almost all were from the Interlake,” O’Neill said.
“Accompaniment was provided by a group of musicians — drums, guitar, piano, saxophone.”
Although they haven’t all kept in touch over the years, the connection was still strong when they met up for the reunion last month. Eight members got together, travelling from near and far — two from Stonewall, two from Winnipeg, one from north of Brandon, one from Ontario and two from B.C. They also brought along other family members, including spouses, children, grandchildren and parents.
“When we met together again after 50 years, it was just like old times — everything so familiar, the bond that music builds still strong,” O’Neill said. “Regrettably, several did not receive an invitation due to lack of contact information.”
On Friday, Aug. 22, they met at the Red Barn for a chance to socialize, renew acquaintances and share memories. The following day, they joined together to perform for their families.
“We were able to borrow the set of our original handbells so on Saturday we played and sang some favourite pieces from 50 years ago at the United Church,” O’Neill said.
O’Neill tracked down the original instruments through a Google search for “Manitoba handbells,” which led her to a woman named Morna-June Morrow.
“She is a music educator and highly involved with handbells in Manitoba and beyond. She just happened to have first-hand knowledge as to the fate of the original carillon bells,” she said.
“After being repaired by Ms. Morrow, they had been sold to a church in Winnipeg but then purchased by a member of one of her bell-ringing groups, Patsy Andrews-Vert of Starbuck. When Patsy was put in contact with me, she very willingly agreed to let us use them for the reunion.”
Adding to the excitement, the reunited musicians also had the chance to enjoy lunch at Something Beautiful, take photos at the memorial kiln and wrap up with a family barbecue.
Then on Sunday, Aug. 24, a few members continued the festivities by enjoying the production of Frozen at Rainbow Stage.
Looking back, O’Neill reflected on what she liked best about her involvement in the group.
“There are so many things — making great music, bringing joy to people through performing, meeting people, having the opportunity to travel, working as a team, gaining competence and confidence, understanding the importance of preparation and practice,” she said. “It was fun.”
O’Neill also shared part of an email from another member who reflected on their experience together.
“It’s amazing how our singing group, anchored and driven by Olga, affected so many of our lives becoming musicians, caregivers, or working with the public. She was truly an influence on all our lives and we were all fortunate to have worked with her,” the Stonewall Carillons member said.
“Also important is the support and encouragement we received from our parents — from fundraising to purchasing the bells, transporting all of us to many rehearsals and performances and also creating a wonderful, safe and loving atmosphere which contributed to our success.”
Looking ahead, the group is discussing the possibility of having another reunion in upcoming years.
