käsikellukkeet

Käsikellukkeet is a Finnish term that translates to "handbells" in English. Handbells are musical instruments played by swinging them in a manner that causes a internal clapper to strike the bell. Each handbell typically produces a single, distinct musical note.

The instruments are usually made of brass and come in various sizes, with larger bells producing lower pitches and smaller bells producing higher pitches. In ensembles, multiple players each hold one or more handbells, and together they perform musical pieces. The coordination and timing between players are crucial for producing a cohesive sound.

Handbell ringing has a long history, with origins tracing back to bell towers in medieval Europe. The practice of playing individual handbells in ensembles gained popularity in England in the 18th century. Today, handbell choirs exist worldwide, performing a wide range of musical genres from classical arrangements to popular music. The technique involves specific methods of ringing, dampening, and other bell manipulations to achieve expressive musicality. The visual aspect of a handbell ensemble, with its synchronized movements and ringing bells, is also a notable characteristic of this musical tradition.