End on a high note
In a recent fairly lengthy post on Facebook the writer was describing how they ran a practice night emphasising the importance of placing bands. I believe this is a core skill for any tower captain to ensure that people both enjoy their ringing and have the best chance of making progress.
They also said it was a good idea to end with a good bit of ringing – better to end with well-struck rounds than having yet another go at getting Stedman to come round (my words not his). On a Sunday this is often referred to as a service touch and I have always felt it a privilege to be asked to ring in it. As many worshippers leave it to the last minute to arrive at church this does mean they get to hear us at our best.
This reminded me of one of Jesus’ most popular miracles recorded in John’s gospel – the changing of water into wine. When the steward tastes the miraculous wine he remarks to the groom: “Most people serve the good wine first then when the guests have had a few drinks they serve the inferior stuff but you have saved the best until last.’
Whilst we should always aim for good quality ringing let us at least try to end on a high note.
John Hereward