About Us

Founded in the summer of 2016, ECHO Ringers began as a Christian-based musical organization dedicated to bringing uplifting and inspiring performances to the community. What started as a vision for alternative entertainment for any event has grown into one of the Rockford area’s most distinctive and dynamic handbell ensembles.

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ECHO Ringers proudly ring five octaves of handbells and four octaves of hand-chimes, performed by a dedicated 20-member volunteer ensemble. The group is non-denominational and religiously inspired, with members representing 11 area churches who share a common passion for music and ministry.

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ECHO’s mission is to bring the art of handbell and hand-chime ringing to the Rockford, Illinois area through education and performance, while nurturing a love for this unique musical form among youth and new learners. Each fall, ECHO hosts its annual “Workshop and Worship”, offering both inspiration and hands-on experience to ringers of all ages.

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Throughout the year, ECHO presents two major concerts—a joyful Christmas Concert celebrating the season and a vibrant June performance showcasing a wide variety of choral and instrumental styles. Their repertoire features both sacred and secular selections, as well as holiday favorites that delight audiences of all ages.

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Originally directed by Diane Londo, ECHO flourished under her vision and leadership. Following her retirement in 2019, Joyce Zartman and Andrew Mertzenich served as co-directors, carrying forward ECHO’s legacy of community and musicianship. Today, under the artistic direction of Karl Bruhn, the ensemble continues to inspire through music that uplifts the spirit and strengthens community bonds.

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ECHO Ringers are available to perform for worship services, community events, and special occasions. To learn more, join the group, or book ECHO Ringers for your next event, please Contact Us.