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Seven optional handchimes in the 2-octave range introduce the melody on this advent plainsong. Underneath are mallets on suspended bells. These combine for an ethereal, anticipatory effect. The LV technique smooths the following, flowing section. A quiet ending leaves one to ponder this season.
Several stanzas are arranged, each different and in different keys. A lot of contrasts in dynamics and the arranger uses several bell techniques to add variety and interest.
A colorful arrangement of the popular hymn tune using interesting harmonic progressions, good melody placement and has an accompaniment which keeps the piece moving.
Lloyd Larson’s arrangement of this Christmas standard is easy to put together, yet has a sound belying that simplicity. Unexpected harmonies are achieved with just a few easy bell changes, and the key changes bring added energy at just the right moments in the piece. This piece is perfect for a candlelight Christmas Eve service, or a concert any time during the Christmas season.
Solemn, sustained lines highlight this arrangement by Patricia Hurlbutt. The melody passes from treble to bass and back over the course of the piece, which fades away with a final snippet of the theme. A reflective selection for a quiet worship moment.
Celebratory peals and powerful chords open this arrangement of the hymn tune Laudate Dominum. The momentum slows for the second verse, allowing for a moment of reflection before the triumphant closing statement. Easily approachable for most ensembles, this work is a great chance to let your group shine.
A transparent texture in slow and "melancholy" character along with optional 3 octaves of handchimes make this arrangement of the Hans Leo Hassler tune an excellent choice for the Lenten season.
Sensitive, passionate, and stirring all describe this setting of the Lenten hymn by Hans Hassler. The musical fabric fluctuates between full and fragile expressing the gamut of emotions found within the text of this hymn. Mallets on a few suspended bells close this piece with quiet reflection.
A haunting and melancholy accompaniment on chimes starts off this arrangement of the well-known hymn tune. Delicate and flowing sixteenth notes underpin the middle verse which leads into a triumphant and chordal final verse. Delightful and unexpected harmonies abound throughout, casting this old favorite in a new light.
Commissioned in celebration of a 25th and 100th anniversary this setting of the hymn tune LYONS is triumphant and majestic. A lively, and driving introduction made up of sixteenth-note rhythms rung and malleted and continues throughout the work. The melody is found in upper and middle registers. 78 measures in length.
Several fanfare figures, a modulation and harmonic changes of the traditional harmonies make an interesting 2-3 octave handbell selection.
Flowing textures, altered harmonies, doubled melody, LV technique, and solid, sustained chords lend their unique impressions on this setting of the chant Divinum Mysterium. 73 measures in length.
Replete with energized, 16th-note rhythms this transcription of "All'Offertorio" by Domenico Zipoli is a study in crisp ringing and good damping.
Simultaneously traditional and modern, Lloyd Larson’s arrangement of this beloved hymn is sure to become a favorite of your congregation. A gentle accompaniment underscores the melody, while occasional and often unexpected chromatics sneak in to provide a fresh take on the tune. A simple but stunning selection for worship!
Several stanzas are presented in this composition, each one arranged differently. The use of arpeggios is prominent in the first section and is combined with plucking. The last portion is more straightforward and chordal ending with arpeggiated figure.
Jason Krug’s stirring arrangement of this haunting melody makes a perfect addition to your Christmas concert or Christmas Eve service. Flowing accompaniment, interwoven countermelodies, and unexpected harmonies abound. If possible, add the optional violin, though handchimes can be substituted in a pinch.
A series of fantasia-like chords underpin this moving arrangement of the hymn tune IRBY. Open and often unexpected harmonies accompany an otherwise straightforward setting of the tune before it gets combined with the tune ST. LOUIS (O Little Town of Bethlehem). A more traditional iteration of the tune follows before returning once more to the feeling of the opening. A gorgeous setting for your holiday service or concert.
Your ringers will set a distinctive mood with this transcription of a piece from the Seventh Suite by Handel. What starts with a simple and delicate theme becomes increasingly forceful and complex as it builds to a powerful, thundering climax. Intense concentration and musicality from your ringers will deliver a satisfying result that both they and audiences will relish.
Prelude, concert piece, worship number, festival selection - you choose. This setting based on G.F. Handel's "Pastoral Symphony" from Messiah, fits nicely into any of these venues. Fully scored but with a light feel, all ringers stay involved.
Written for the Raleigh Ringers, this rendition of the Christmas carol pulses with rhythmic malleted accompaniment and optional conga drums. 10 optional chimes (ranging from D#5 to E6) are scored right at the beginning adding a shimmer to the music. The score is full, keeps all ringers involved, and moves through a couple of key changes. It is set in 2/4 time.
From the pen of a master, this simple arrangement is for 3 octaves of bells. Several interesting rhythmic patterns create the only difficulty to learning.
Carl Bohm. This fun, riotous romp is ideal for the ensemble looking to step up their game and provide an energetic moment in either concert or worship. Played almost entirely with mallets on tabled bells, this driving, chromatic tune is as much fun to play as it is to hear. Careful attention to dynamics, accents, and tempo changes bring out the musicality in the piece. A great choice for a show-stopping introduction or encore!
A fun piece! Easy to put together and interesting to ring. Good festival music.
An arrangement of the complete march, not just the familiar tune.
A rhythmic change of pace for the 5-octave choir. Ringing techniques emphasize the swing rhythm.
Sondra Tucker’s arrangement of “Poor Wayfaring Stranger” is a heartfelt and emotional treatment of the traditional spiritual.
A celebratory fanfare linked with quiet celebration
If you've rung Fred Gramann's work in the past, you know he has a special sound. This arrangement of HYFRYDOL continues that "sound" with a mystical opening that builds in intensity to the entrance of the melody. Energy and bell changes are required!
This is a majestic, rhythmically easy arrangement of "Lobe den Herren, O Meine Seele".
The opening fanfare of this setting of LOBE DEN HERREN travels through three keys in 9 measures and leads into a pulsing, energetic presentation of the hymn tune. A later sections feature optional 3(4) octaves of handchimes on the melody.
An opening chordal peal sets the tone in this arrangement of the tune LAUDA ANIMA. The first verse is underscored by a delicate malleted eighth note figure, which serves to propel the piece forward. The second verse features a peal accompaniment in the treble bells with the battery bells featured on the melody. A key change ushers in the final, chordal verse of the piece.
Engelbert Humperdinck's original work is delightfully set for 3-6 octaves of bells. A free opening sections sets up the entrance of the tune. Flowing and chordal textures add contrast and interest to the piece as a whole.
Sondra Tucker has created a spirited arrangement full of joy and excitement.
An easy piece for 3-4 octaves of bells. This selection sounds impressive because of the large chords.
"As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul after you, O God," so begins the 42nd Psalm on which this original composition is based. Composed in 3/4 meter, a simple but strong melody is supported by an ongoing sixteenth-note line and eighth-note arpeggios in adagio tempo. A second, stately section resorts to tall chords to portray the Psalmist hope in the Lord. This was commissioned by the Raleigh Ringers.
Written in memory of a beloved ringer and based on Psalm 104:24 ("O Lord, how manifold are your works") this original composition is in a flowing 3/4 meter, scored in open texture, and accompanied by an optional flute or C instrument, which lends notes of playful joy.
Patricia Hurlbutt’s arrangement of the tune PUER NOBIS is a light, playful selection sure to entrance ringers and audiences alike. With no bell changes and limited techniques, most ensembles can prepare this piece with minimal rehearsal time. Suggested hymn titles for the piece allow it to be played for Easter, Christmas, or at any point throughout the church year.
Robert James Lamb's creative setting of this early American melody is sure to delight listeners. Based around the Westminster Quarters change ring, which plays in one form or another throughout most of the piece, the piece moves from simple and prayerful to grand and triumphant and back. Much of the melody is scored on a separate staff for six handchimes, which may be played by a separate chime choir or soloist, or by a solo C instrument. A delightful, new take on a grand, old hymn.
This arrangement of the tune ST. GEORGE’S WINDSOR (“Come, Ye Thankful People, Come”) is an ideal choice for a service celebrating Thanksgiving. The piece explores a wide variety of moods and meters, with the melody passed around through all parts, and intricate and unexpected harmonies abounding. An optional flute part provides interesting countermelodies throughout.
Uses ST. GEORGE'S WINDSOR, KREMSER and NUN DANKET ALLE GOTT. Bold chords give way to ST. GEORGE’S WINDSOR (Come, Ye Thankful People, Come) to open this medley of Thanksgiving tunes. A softer middle section utilizing the tune KREMSER (We Gather Together) gives all ranges a chance to showcase the melody. A final verse, using NUN DANKET (Now Thank We All Our God) returns to the same triumphant feel of the opening. A rousing choice for a Thanksgiving service.
This beautiful original by Michael Helman will challenge your ensemble technically and musically. A slow opening section features jazz-inspired harmonies and a memorable, flowing melody. Handchimes are masterfully interwoven throughout. The closing section moves into 6/8 and lilts and dances along to the final chord. A fun piece suitable for church or concert use.
The character of this original composition takes its inspiration from the dedication line above the title. It reads: "To Cynthia Hamburger, for 35 years of marriage and her love of handbell music, All my love, Vic." This heart-felt sentiment carries through in the lilting, 6/8 meter, dotted-rhythm melody, an optional melody scored for 8 handchimes (2 octave range).
Written by Octave Chaillet. Fun and frolicsome, this arrangement, written for a meeting of the Musical Box Society International, is sure to delight audiences young and old. The spirited tempo and frequent accidentals will keep ringers on their toes and provide ample challenge. An optional part for a duplicate set of handbells or orchestra bells provides an extra layer of interest and excitement.
The title describes this music - a piece which moves forward. The 1986 AGEHR Area V Composition Contest Winner.
Llyod Larson’s medley of “Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart,” “The Ash Grove,” and “Now Thank We All Our God” is a beautiful blend of three beloved hymns.
With a relentless eighth-note ostinato propelling the piece ever onward, this forceful offering is a spectacular showpiece for the choir looking for a bit of a challenge. Driving rhythms and bold chords give way to a peaceful, almost out-of-time interlude before returning to bring the piece to its exciting conclusion.
An original composition for the two octave choirs. Because of the pace, key changes and accidentals, work is required but worth the effort.
A 1980 Area V AGEHR composition winner. Fun to ring!
Spiritual, also incorporates PLENTY GOOD ROOM. With driving rhythms and liberal syncopation, Anna Laura Page’s arrangement of this spiritual is a rollicking good time for everyone. Incorporating “Plenty Good Room” in the middle, the mood of the piece changes subtly without losing any of its drive or energy. Sure to become a regular in your repertoire.
ST. THEODULPH and ELLACOMBE. A festive opening peal leads into triumphant statements of two well-known Palm Sunday hymns in this arrangement by Lloyd Larson. The settings of both hymns are straightforward, yet provide enough harmonic and rhythmic interest to remain fresh and vibrant. A wonderful choice to kick off your Palm Sunday service.
With a laid-back, easy swing, Lloyd Larson’s arrangement of the well-known spiritual is sure to set toes a-tappin’! Ring touches and malleted notes are used to great effect throughout, and delicate use of chromatics yield pleasant and stirring harmonies. A great choice for use throughout the Advent and Christmas seasons.
Performance notes are given for use of the optional 3-5 octaves of handchimes in this arrangement of the Christmas spiritual. Full chordal ringing, malleted passages, flowing LV sections and powerful fortissimo passages make up the texture of this work.
An arrangement of the theme from Masterpiece Theater which does not use the dotted 8th and 16th note figure as others do.
Henry Purcell's original work is here arranged for 3-5 octaves of bells (and 6-7 octaves of optional bass bells) and optional 3-5 octave chimes. The writing is clean and crisp and the texture open and dancing in 3/4 meter.
This traditional Neapolitan tune is a staple of the Advent celebration of St. Lucy’s Day, observed in Scandinavia and Italy. A gentle, flowing accompaniment leads into the simple, memorable melody, which travels throughout the ensemble as the piece unfolds. A key change leads to a final celebratory verse before the piece settles to end on a calm note once more. A perfect choice for the ensemble looking for something different this holiday season.
This original from Jason Krug will challenge your ringers and delight your audiences. Complex interweaving of the various melodies is achieved through liberal use of handchimes. The nostalgic mood of the piece lends itself to a service of remembrance or to general concert programming.
Simple and touching, Sondra Tucker's arrangement of this Indian folk hymn is a beautiful, lyrical delight. Flowing eighth notes underscore the tune, which is introduced on handchimes. The middle section presents a chordal and chromatic version of the hymn-tune GORDON before returning to the initial tune and accompaniment once more.
This lovely, flowing arrangement of a Maori melody has a nostalgic sound sure to captivate all who hear it. Sporadic chromatic passages will require some special attention in rehearsal, but their effect is well worth the effort. A minimum of techniques and no tempo changes let your ringers focus on their expression and musicality.
Hymn-tune HUMILITY. A gentle and delicate ostinato figure opens Lloyd Larson's lovely arrangement of this Christmas tune. A solo melody line on handchimes gives way to both a key change and a full, chordal verse of the tune. The piece returns to the opening key for one final triumphant verse before returning to the opening material to close out the piece.
The plucking technique is used widely in this light, playful and melodic piece. One of the few pieces by Haydn in bell repertory.
An interpretation of the shepherd's joy at the announcing of the birth of Christ.
14 optional handchimes (2-octave range) are scored on the melody in mid-range bells in a section of this transcription of Gabriel Faure's original work. The melody is found in both upper and lower regions and moves through chromatics on melody and accompaniment. Two bell "rolls" add interest.
After a tender introduction of 26 measures, the congregation may join with the handbell choir and sing the carol (repeats are built in for multiple verses). After the singing a final section, which includes harmonic changes, ends the setting.
After a tender introduction of 26 measures, the congregation may join with the handbell choir and sing the carol (repeats are built in for multiple verses). After the singing a final section, which includes harmonic changes, ends the setting.
The harmonic progressions of Mrs. Kinyon plus carefully observing all her bell markings assures one of an arrangement which will become a permanent part of your repertory.
Traditional American folk tune. Simple and heartfelt describe Lloyd Larson’s arrangement of this tune. With few accidentals and one easily-managed key change, most ensembles will have little trouble putting this piece together technically, allowing them to focus on musicality and expression. A lovely choice for worship throughout the year.
From the incidental music to "Abdelazer". Chordal structure aids in keeping an even rhythm. Good addition to bell literature.
This rocking rendition of the traditional French carol will challenge and stretch your advanced choir. It is set in varying meters, from 7/8 to 2/4 to 6/8, with an energetic tempo marking.
The first section is straight forward with a couple of chromatic surprises. After a key change the tempo slows and we find the melody in a quasi-major tonality with the bass line descending chromatically.
Gregory Pysh’s arrangement of the traditional French carol “Noel Nouvelet” is an energetic choice for the holiday season. Myriad techniques and changing styles provide interest for ringers and audiences alike. A good choice for both sacred and secular settings.
Jason Krug makes liberal use of the singing bell technique in this beautiful arrangement of “Silent Night.” A perfect finale for a candlelit Christmas Eve service.
Rhythmically a "breeze" except for 4 measures containing 16th notes. Modal.
Venite Adoremus and In Dulci Jubilo. This medley of two tunes — “The Snow Lay on the Ground” and “In Dulci Jubilo” — provides a fresh take on both. Multiple stopped techniques are used throughout to beautiful effect, especially the extended section of martellatos at a piano dynamic in the bass. A final joyful verse of the first theme closes out the piece, which ends with a playful flourish.
The folk song, "The Water Is Wide", is arranged for flute and handbells. Many accompanying 8th notes which must move smoothly and freely.
This masterwork from Michael Helman is a worthy challenge for any advanced group looking to showcase their skill and musicality. Written as a three-movement work, the lively upbeat opening movement features delicate interplay between the various registers of the bells. The slow, haunting middle movement features accompaniment on handchimes. The final Allegro showcases Helman’s masterful writing with nuanced interplay of stopped techniques. Sure to leave audiences awestruck and breathless!
Based on NEAR THE CROSS and ST. CHRISTOPHER this medley opens with smooth flowing texture and the melody soaring above. Mallets on suspended bells are added later on as the texture builds.
Karen Buckwalter’s mysterious and beautiful arrangement of three Christmas carols –“Away In a Manger,” “There’s a Song in the Air,” and “The Holly and the Ivy” – is the perfect way to evoke the wonder of the season. From its haunting opening with mallets on suspended bells (with the option to play them on a bell tree) through a dance-like middle section and on through a creative combining of melodies, the piece will engage your audience and your ringers. Be sure to add the optional wind chimes, hand drum, tambourine, and finger cymbals for optimal effect.
Constantly moving triplet figures throughout create a challenge for the treble ringers but worth the effort.
This fun showstopper will give your choir an extra challenge. Exposed melodies will require careful attention in rehearsal, but the effect is well worth the effort. Add in the optional castanets to give the piece the proper flavor. From the Nutcracker Suite.
Pianists immediately recognize the "Spinning Song" from any of several piano method books; includes the optional use of mallets (or plucked bells), thumb dampening & regular ringing.
A lively, original, syncopated tune, the Area V Composition co-winner in 1983. Easy and fun to ring.
Patricia Hurlbutt’s arrangement of the popular spiritual is fun for listeners, and a good challenge for your ringers. The swing feel predominates for most of the piece, providing a nice sense of flow throughout. The numerous accidentals and key changes will keep your ringers on their toes.
A transcription, rather than an arrangement, written for The Raleigh Ringers, this challenging selection even includes the piccolo part set for G6-C8 with some special instructions for bell assignment and logistics.
Every 3-5 octave choir should have this resource piece in their library. After a 4-measure introduction, the piece moves right into the melody and continues to the final triumphant measure
Jason Krug’s lyrical original composition makes an excellent choice for any group looking to work on its musicality and legato ringing.
Features three beloved Foster tunes including: My Old Kentucky Home, Camptown Races and I Dream of Jeannie with the Light Brown Hair.
This charming arrangement of a well-known Austrian carol is perfect for any contemplative moment in a concert or worship service during the Advent season. The added C instrument provides interesting counterpoint to the handbells and handchimes. A more somber middle section incorporates Coventry Carol on handchimes before returning to the original tune. A lovely selection sure to enchant the ear and the heart.
An exposed opening is punctuated by upper bells mimicking the chiming of a clock tower in James Weber's expressive arrangement of this Christmas mainstay. Flowing accompaniments and lush, unexpected harmonies abound. The work builds in strength and dynamic throughout before dying away to a gentle conclusion. A fantastic addition to both the handbell literature and any Christmas service or concert.
The hymn tune VICTORY is the basis of this arrangement for 3-5 octaves. The character marking is "Triumphantly, quarter = 120." After a big fanfare the music settles into a comfortable rhythm and presents the melody in a straightforward manner. The change to the final BROAD section finds the texture big and bold and drives to a strong finish in measure 80.
This joyous and approachable arrangement of the well-known hymn is perfect for the smaller choir looking for a triumphant piece to play on Easter or throughout Eastertide. A driving malleted figure propels the piece forward while the melody soars above. Occasional sections in minor are interspersed, providing musical depth and harmonic interest. A final, stately iteration of the theme gives way to the initial driving rhythm once more before concluding in grand fashion.
For handbell choir (4 octaves) and medium voice(s).
Haunting and mysterious, Michael Keller’s original composition is engaging and thought-provoking. Careful attention must be paid to the frequent accidentals and key changes, and to the sharp dynamic contrasts that appear around the half-way point. Musically substantive, this piece will challenge your ringers to work on expressive, emotional ringing.
The iconic movement from Camille Saint-Saens' "Carnival of the Animals."
St. George's Windsor and Nun Danket Alle Gottare the two Thanksgiving hymns used in this medley. Optional handchimes, scored on the melody in an inner section, add their color to this medley of hymn tunes. A flashy fanfare opening on bells leads into the first tune. LV, thumb damp, and martellato techniques add further interest.
St. George's Windsor and Nun Danket Alle Gottare the two Thanksgiving hymns used in this medley. Optional handchimes, scored on the melody in an inner section, add their color to this medley of hymn tunes. A flashy fanfare opening on bells leads into the first tune. LV, thumb damp, and martellato techniques add further interest.
The hymn tunes GLORIA, ST. LOUIS, CAROL, and BESANCON are combined in this carol medley inspired by a solo project with Christine Anderson. Varying tempos, keys, dynamics and a fully-scored texture keeps the ringers and audience involved.
John Ness Beck's setting of this carol is here transcribed for bells by Arnold Sherman. It opens with mallets on suspended bells for that shimmery, crisp winter air effect then moves onto a stronger texture full of rich harmonies, expressive tempos, and dynamics, which if done correctly, will add much to the music's ability to communicate to the listener.
Celebrate Easter Sunday with this bold, creative setting of the well-loved Easter hymn. Fresh harmonies bring the first verse alive, while a percussive, malleted section adds vitality and joy to the second. Sure to be a favorite of your congregation, and a fun challenge for your ringers.
Lloyd Larson has written your handbell choir's Easter morning opener with Thine Is the Glory, for three to five octaves of bells. This celebratory anthem is a glorious arrangement of the beloved tune, and will require little effort on the part of your ringers. Don't let the bell chart fool you -- after nine bars of a modulating fanfare, the rest of the piece stays soundly in C major, with the rare accidental thrown in. Your bass ringers will love the middle section where they get to pound out the melody. Open your Easter service or spring concert with this work and set the tone for a celebration of music and life.
This fantasia-like arrangement of Greenlseeves is the perfect choice for an intermediate ensemble looking for a contemplative choice for the Christmas season. The melody dances around the well-known tune, creating a work that is both familiar and unexpected, while the haunting chords root the piece in the realm of the mysterious. This beautiful arrangement houses a great store of musical depth, one ringers will have a great time exploring.