The Aldrin Handchime Ensemble began eight years ago with a loan of three octaves of Malmark handchimes from the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers. The students loved playing, so eventually auditioned ensembles were developed and after students left Aldrin, the alumni ensemble was started. The ensembles are directed by Kay Sutton, music teacher at Aldrin School and member of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers. The first chimes, a two octave set, were donated by Mr. Lee Cook as he retired from his position as principal at Aldrin School. The third octave was donated from profits from the Aldrin School store and the fourth octave was donated by retiring faculty and staff. The handchime ensembles perform at school concerts, at handchime/handbell festivals and workshops, at retirement homes and recently performed at 'The Best of '54' Expo which showcases outstanding ensembles in School District 54. Almost every year they tour other elementary schools in the district to encourage the development of handchime ensembles throughout the District. They received a grant from the Schaumburg Foundation entitled 'Chiming Around the Community' to help with their performing expenses. Their future goals include fundraising to purchase handbells.