The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir

The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir is an internationally acclaimed community handbell ensemble from Fort Worth, Texas whose mission is to “Foster Excellence Through Discipline And Music.” Founded in 1964, the ensemble has become a world-renowned musical organization, performing for everyone from royalty and diplomats to schools and care facilities. Notable performances include Carnegie Hall with The New York Pops, at Disney World, at “Carols by Candlelight” in Adelaide, South Australia for 30,000 people, and at the Vatican for Pope John Paul II. In addition, the Choir performs each December at “The Littlest Wiseman,” a play pageant of the nativity.

The Choir is unique because members perform from memory, without gloves or tables, and without a conductor. The 30 ringers of the ensemble come from no particular church or school but from throughout the North Texas area.

Kent Schmedel, Executive Director of The Dorothy Shaw Bell Choir and Fort Worth native, was recruited in 1974 to be a member of the DSBC. In 1977, he joined the staff while continuing to perform with the ensemble through the early 1980s. For more than forty years he has helped to “Foster Excellence Through Discipline and Music” with thousands of talented individuals. He has produced audio recordings, videos, international tours, and countless memorable performances for audiences around the world. He is also the Executive Producer of “The Littlest Wiseman” a play pageant of the Nativity.