Kalamazoo Ringers (KR) is the oldest continuously-operating bronze-level community handbell choir in the USA. Founded in 1981 by Janet L. Van Valey, KR has played extensively throughout Southwest Michigan, as well as toured throughout the Midwest, Ontario, England, and Japan. KR is directed by Martha Matthews and is hosted by First United Methodist Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The 16 ringers play a seven-octave set of Malmark handbells along with a six octave set of Malmark Choirchimes. KR is a member and strong supporter of the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo and the Handbell Musicians of America. They have attended and served as featured artists at numerous workshops and festivals sponsored by the Handbell Musicians of America.
