Ringing Badgers

The Ringing Badgers is a community based handbell choir in Madison, Wisconsin. The group is an integral part of the Maestro Productions family of performers and includes handbell musicians from primarily Southern Wisconsin. The group made its debut at the Handbell Musicians of America Area 7 Festival Conference in 2012 (Duluth, MN), performed for the Area 7 Festival Conference in 2014 (La Crosse, WI), and Area 7 Festival Conference in 2016 (Sioux Falls, SD); and will perform for the Area 7 Festival Conference in 2018 (Rochester, MN). The ensemble enjoys an exciting performance schedule each season presenting concerts in collaboration with Maestro's ensembles, as well as, guest appearances with other groups and solo concerts. A positive, team oriented, sharing atmosphere at rehearsals and performances is focused on nurturing individual ringers and the collective talents of the group to provide inspirational performances for our audiences. 

ring with us!

New members are welcome! Previous ringing experience is desirable, but not required.  If you are interested in joining a fun group and enjoy contributing to a positive team experience, please contact Mark Bloedow, Artistic Director, by completing the form below. 

    Yes, I would like more information:

December 2023

Madison's Ringing Badgers Handbell Ensemble, under the direction of Mark Bloedow, enjoyed another successful season with their annual  Sounds of the Season concerts; this year at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Madison and Monroe United Methodist Church, Monroe. The varied program included beloved carols and arrangements of sacred and popular Christmas songs. An audience sing-along and guest performers Kirstin Roble, mezzo-soprano, and Greg Riss, percussionist, were also featured. A complimentary holiday cheer reception with seasonal treats followed both concerts. The RBs also returned for the annual Carols & Candlelight program at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Madison. The selection above was recorded live at the Monroe location.

Maestro's Handbell History

The Maestro handbell program began in the mid 1990's under the direction of Maestro's founder Mark Bloedow. The devotion and commitment of Maestro participants and friends made it possible to purchase four octaves of Malmark Handbells and three octaves of Malmark Choirchimes, as well as, the necessary equipment. Today the Ringing Badgers rings two sets of Malmark Handbells, a 5 octave set and a 4 octave set, and the full 7 octaves of Malmark Chimes. Over the years, the Maestro handbell choirs have enjoyed playing for Maestro concerts, festivals,  programs at area retirement communities, and for area community groups and organizations.  The motto from our early years says it best..."We're doing the best we can!"