Book of the Month

 

This book is split into 2 parts. The first part deals with the practicalities of learning how to ring. From teaching bell control to plain hunting. It starts with the backstroke, handstroke, then the combination of the two, catching the sally & finally everything together. It includes some of the common faults learners make and their cures, before moving onto exercises that will allow the learner to progress to rounds, call changes and plain hunt.

 

The second part of the book looks at the theory and practice of plain hunting, rope sight and onto plain bob minor. The rationale being the first eleven change rows of plain bob minor are identical with those of the plain hunting course on six bells, though it is understood most of the techniques and materials can be adapted to bob doubles. This part of the book gives the tutor and learner multiple ways of understanding and communicating the requirements of plain bob minor; the circle of work, the symmetry, timing & striking, the effect of a bob, etc. It provides the tutor with useful information, hints and tips that will allow the learner to fully understand and progress in the method. For the learner reading the same information and seeing the diagrams and tables will be useful to understand what is they are trying to achieve. 

 

This book is a useful read for both tutor and learner alike. It contains clear explanations with photographs and diagrams to illustrate key points. The main takeaway, whether you’re a tutor or a learner, people learn and assimilate information at different rates and in different ways. 

 

Good bell control is fundamental to being able to successfully progress into plain hunt and beyond, but time and practice are needed. Don’t be discouraged, keep at it, the “break-throughs” when they come are a joy and satisfaction to both the learner and their tutor.  Price £3.75