REM Bell Choir to perform at Great Western Bank Friday
A group of disabled adults practice skills on what they can do, and do not worry about what they cannot do.
That is what makes the Marshalltown REM Bell Choir special.
What the adults do when using their bell chimes is delight and bring a feeling of tranquility during one of the most hectic times of the year.
On Tuesday, bell choir members were practicing Christmas music at their downtown offices in preparation of a 10 a.m. performance on Friday at Great Western Bank. 11 N. First Ave.
Before the July 2018 tornado, the bell choir played at the Marshall County Courthouse. The performance grew in popularity during the years.
Courthouse repairs meant the event was moved to Great Western Bank.
Undaunted, the choir is getting ready, said bell choir coordinator Nicole Jensen of Marshalltown, who has been supervising the choir for six years.
“We have 20 bell choir members on a regular basis,” she said. “They keep busy during the holiday season, and look forward to performing. They play Christmas music at many nursing homes in addition to the 2019 Holiday Stroll and the downtown Great Western Bank, and in some years have played at the annual Veterans Day event at the Iowa Veterans Home.”
Marshall County Supervisor Dave Thompson, who has seen the group perform numerous times, said the bell choir’s talents and enthusiasm “melts even the coldest hearts.”
About REM Iowa
Since 1979, REM Iowa has provided quality services to adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and other complex challenges. We also offer services for adults with brain injuries and provide a range of programs, including residential services and day and vocational programs. Our personalized approach maximizes each person’s unique efforts to learn, grow and thrive in the communities they call home. REM Iowa is a partner of The MENTOR Network, a national network of local health and human services providers offering quality, community-based services across the country.
For more information, contact 641-753-4133.
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Contact Mike Donahey
at 641-753-6611 or
mdonahey@timesrepublican. com