What is a Handchime?

A handchime is a tuned percussion instrument similar to a handbell, but instead of a bell shape, it uses a metal tube to produce sound. It is designed to create a softer, more mellow tone compared to traditional handbells.

Each handchime consists of a metal tube attached to a handle with an internal clapper. When the player moves the instrument, the clapper strikes the tube, producing a clear, resonant pitch.

Like handbells, handchimes are tuned to specific notes and are often played in groups, with each performer responsible for different pitches. This allows ensembles to perform melodies and harmonies together.

Handchimes are commonly used in music education, church groups, and beginner ensembles because they are easier to control and produce a more forgiving sound than handbells.

Today, handchimes are used in both traditional and modern musical settings, and their sound is also recreated digitally within tools like Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro, where producers can incorporate their soft, bell-like tones into compositions.