Handbell choirs do not have the reputation of being able to "rock 'n' roll."

Typically, you hear them occasionally on Sunday mornings playing the "tried and true" hymns and other sacred music.

However, The Raleigh Ringers are not an ordinary handbell choir. Considered by many as one of the best handbell choirs in the world, The Raleigh Ringers take handbells to a different level, which has won the group many fans and has made handbells the new "hip and happening" instrument.

Presented by the Arts Council of Moore County, The Raleigh Ringers will visit Moore County Sunday, April 20, at 3 p.m. at R.E. Lee Auditorium on the campus of Pinecrest High School.

Tickets ($15 in advance or $20 at the door) may be purchased at Campbell House (482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines) or by calling (910) 692-4356.

Founded in 1990, The Raleigh Ringers is an internationally acclaimed, advanced community handbell ensemble. The group has dazzled audiences with its unique interpretations of sacred, secular and popular music, including famous rock 'n' roll tunes arranged just for handbells.

Their concerts showcase their versatility by following up pieces like Mozart's "Overture to The Marriage of Figaro" with hard-rocking classics, such as Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Freebird."

Under the direction of David Harris, The Raleigh Ringers has released four CDs, and a DVD of a holiday concert titled "One Winter Evening at Meymandi." This same concert was also broadcast on more than 250 public television stations in 44 states.

The group has also performed in 34 states, in several cities in France, live on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Show radio show, and on the Hour of Power at the Crystal Cathedral. The Raleigh Ringers also sponsors two annual handbell festivals in Raleigh, one geared for children and one for adults.

For additional information on the April 20 concert, please call the Arts Council at 910-692-4356 or visit www.artscouncil-moore.org.