School of Library and Information Science Dean Sandra Yee once considered a career in music. An avid alto saxophonist in high school, she was well on her way to a music major. “After my freshman year, I developed a passion for working in libraries, so I concentrated on being a librarian,” Yee says. “But I always enjoyed music.”

Over the years, Yee found a way to pursue both passions.  For more than two decades, she has honed her skill as a handbell ringer.

“Music is a creative outlet for me,” says Yee, a member of the Cantabile Bell Choir at Newburg United Methodist Church. “It really lifts my spirits.”

Yee has traveled throughout the Detroit area and Lansing to play at churches, conventions, weddings and funerals.

Handbells can be highly complex instruments, with many ways to play besides traditional ringing. Other techniques include plucking, shaking and table damping. 

“It requires concentration.” Yee adds. “It’s like playing a piano with a whole choir.”

While Yee hasn’t played solo, she is considering it. “Maybe when I retire, I’ll take some lessons and do more practicing with bells.”