FCC hosts Walsh Memorial Bell Choir Concert

First Congregational Church in Melrose hosts the members of the Walsh Memorial Bell Choir (WMBC) which celebrates its 50th Anniversary Season this year. The public is invited to a FREE concert on Monday, July 2nd at 3:00 pm at The Residences at Melrose Station, 158 Essex Street in Melrose.

WMBC, established in 1968, is named after Rev. Joseph E. Walsh of The Presbyterian Church of Morris Plains, where the ensemble is still based. The ensemble is an active community ambassador for handbell ringing and an advocate for preserving and promoting English handbell choirs in church, music education, and in the community.

Comprised of auditioned 6th-12th grade students from various communities in New Jersey, WMBC ringers tour annually and participate regularly in festivals, conferences, concerts, and community outreach performances. Recent tours have included New York State, Myrtle Beach, and Disney World. The ensemble has also performed in Canada, Mexico, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.