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