The Bells Are Ringing Out Russia

Feb 1996 One man stands attached to nine bells by a web of ropes. Arms, hands and feet yank the ropes to create a symphony of sound. This is Pavel Markelov, guardian of an ancient Russian tradition bell ringing. He gives lessons to other aspiring bell ringers at the Cathedral of St. Sophia. Twelve months ago, St. Sophia was a silent wreck. Now her belfries ring out fortissimo. The end of Communist rule has seen a renaissance in bell ringing. It has also highlighted a shortage not only of bell ringers but