The Unkalung Choir

The Unkalung Choir was formed to represent the Bethel Series. The music is ethereal, produced by vibrating the primitive bamboo instruments that are native to Thailand. The unique sound is enhanced by the choral excellence of the choir.

Harley Swiggum, the author of the Bethel Series, chose this instrument because the international flavor represents the international scope of the Bethel Series.

Betty Mansfield organized the choir and continues to direct its music ministry. It all began with a trip to Thailand in 1977 to purchase a set of the instruments. At that time, she met the Thai music teacher who hand carved each instrument out of the bamboo he had raised in his own back yard. She observed and studied the use of the instrument in its own native setting. Upon her return, Betty hand picked local musicians that she knew and began the experiment of producing western music using an eastern instrument.

The all volunteer choir is a part of the closing ceremonies of each Bethel Series training session. As part of the ministry, the choir travels extensively, primarily to Bethel Series enrolled churches, but the musicians will also share their music and Christian faith in a variety of settings.

We call the Unkalung Choir A BETHEL SERIES TREASURE.

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