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Patricia Hurlbutt's arrangement of TERRA BEATA takes the tune through various keys and moods, providing ample interest for ringer and listener alike. A delicate, duet-like opening gives way to a chordal verse with fresh, unexpected harmonies, followed by a verse featuring stopped sounds. A final, triumphant verse rounds out the piece in glorious fashion. A great choice for any time during the church year!
Melodic and rhythmically delightful. Compound meter heightens the excitment of the music.
With an opening figure that invokes train wheels rolling along a track, this arrangement of the well-known spiritual is as much fun to ring as it is to hear. The melody passes between all ranges of the bells, giving everyone a chance to shine. Varied techniques add an element of interest, and both the key change and the occasional accidental give ringers a chance to practice bell changes. A fun number all around!
Includes: O Worship the King; Praise the Lord, Ye Heavens, Adore Him!; O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing. These three easy-to-assemble preludes will add a little something special to your worship service. Using shakes, martellatos, echoes, and handchimes, these pieces will grab your congregation’s attention with minimal effort from your ringers.
The Good Shepherd (BRADBURY and RESIGNATION), Variations of Come, Christians Join to Sing (MADRID), Hyfrydol (HYFRYDOL)
The Good Shepherd (BRADBURY and RESIGNATION), Variations of Come, Christians Join to Sing (MADRID), Hyfrydol (HYFRYDOL)
Contains: Palm Sunday Prelude; Now the Green Blade Riseth; Easter Procession.
Contains: Palm Sunday Prelude; Now the Green Blade Riseth; Easter Procession.
Because of the modal flavor, a "Lenten" mood is set with this arrangement of a French melody. The melody is set over a bass ostinato with continues throught most of the music.
Based upon the national dance of the Philippines, Tinkiling is a fun piece for groups looking for something different and exciting. The piece accelerates with each new verse, providing a technical and choreographic challenge for ringers equal to those of a dancer performing the dance itself, where one wrong step or slip of concentration can result in getting a foot snapped between two poles. Lively and frolicsome to the end, this piece is sure to enthrall audiences.
Brian Childers’ arrangement of the well-known “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear” is a fresh take on an old classic. An ethereal opening gives way to an off-beat treatment of the tune, which manages to be both traditional and innovative at the same time. A more serene middle section assigns the bass handchimes to the lower treble ringers, providing an interesting visual and aural experience. The piece builds into a powerful final verse before floating away to a gentle final chord. Not to be missed this holiday season!
The movement of persistent ocean waves can be heard in the constant 8th note accompaniment in this arrangement of "Immortal, Invisible, God only Wise." This setting is dedicated to all the victims of Hurricane Ike in 2008.
Audiences may not dance, but they’ll surely tap their toes along to this lively arrangement. The optional percussion instruments add to the energy, and the inventive harmonies keep interest going throughout. Extensive stopped techniques played by all the bells help bring the piece to life. A festive addition to your Advent season.
This original composition from Jason Krug will challenge the musicality of your ensemble and entrance your listeners. Starting from a single three-note motif, the piece builds and develops in intensity and complexity, transcending its simple opening to become bigger and grander. The mood shifts throughout, from hopeful and yearning to agitated and frantic, before returning once more to joy and celebration. A worthy challenge for any advanced choir.
Frederic Chopin's classic original is beautifully transcribed here for bells. Grace notes add nuance and the LV technique is used to smooth out accompaniment and syncopations. Bell changes add challenge.
A nice melody, interesting harmony and rhythm plus several bell techniques make this a grand piece. Try it, you will like it!
David N. Johnson's original work is set here in bright colors and strong textures. It is perfect for any moment of celebratory worship or concert opening selection.
This easy arrangement of the traditional carol is printed in 2 versions; a 3 octave edition is on one side and a 4 octave edition is on the other.
Sub-titled "A Joyous Dance" this original composition is marked "With bounce, quarter note = 112-120." Mallets on tabled bells in the accompaniment provide the bounce and support the happy melody.
Rubato to Allegro, staccato to LV, and 3/4 to 6/8 are a few of the contrasts scored in this original composition. These elements all combine for a colorful work of praise.
Michael Helman's energetic Variations on The Church's One Foundation is arranged for three to five octaves of handbells, with optional D8 bell, and optional 3 octaves of handchimes. Starting from a straightforward statement of this beloved hymn, this piece transitions through a dramatic minor iteration, a lyrical variation in three-quarter time, and finally a spirited jig. With enough martellatos, thumb damps, mallets, and shakes to keep all your ringers happy, this piece will also delight your audience. This piece makes a wonderful offertory for your church service, or an expanded work during a concert.
An arrangement of a 17th century French (Auxios) tune requiring precision ringing. Several bell techniques used. Useful for church or concert.
This jovial Christmas music moves through passages of strong chords, malleted accompaniment, martellato, flowing LVed eighth notes, echoed chords with chime melody and a final race to the finish in these variations on the favorite holiday song.
Ron Mallory’s original piece works well not just in concert, but also as a non-traditional choice for Easter Sunday service, or any other celebratory time during the church year. A driving, syncopated melody — at first lightly accompanied, then propelled by malleted bells — gives way to a gentler, reflective middle section with a melody on chimes. The initial idea returns at the end to bring the piece to a final, triumphant conclusion. A fun piece both to ring and hear!
Part of the Raleigh Ringers Virtuoso Series. The live recoding was performed at the Raleigh Ringers "Virtuoso Experience" under the direction of Dr. William Payn. Featuring running sixteenth notes, tricky chime/bell doublings, and dynamic extremes, this piece will challenge even the most advanced of handbell musicians. For the ensemble looking to show what they’re really capable of, however, it is indeed a worthy challenge, and one to inspire awe amongst audiences and other handbell musicians alike.
This bittersweet, original composition written in memory of a loved one begins with optional mark tree or windchimes, which are soon joined by random malleted of suspended treble bells. The melody is longing and wistful accompanied by gentle, streaming accompaniment. The music grows in intensity at its apex but then floats downward to the opening, random material.
If your advanced group is ready for a challenge both musically and technically, then this piece is worthy of your review. Peter Tchaikovsky's composition is transcribed here to mirror the color and vibrancy of the original work. The arranger scored whatever is needed, whether with a special technique or musical motif, to get the job done. Written for the Raleigh Ringers,
Douglas Anderson’s transcription of the well-loved Sousa march is nothing short of a showstopper! With nonstop energy clear through to the end, this is a perfect choice for a concert closer or encore.
Valerie Stephenson's arrangement of this traditional English folksong beautifully combines handbells and handchimes for a pleasing tonal experience. Flowing lines and gentle block chords lend a feel of newness to this otherwise straightforward arrangement. With no note changes other than between bells and chimes, choirs are free to focus on coaxing the full amount of musicality out of their performance.
From a simple beginning through striking harmonies, the moods of this piece run the gamut. A good choice for your smaller choir, the techniques employed are minimal and the bell changes infrequent. This arrangement offers an excellent opportunity for your musicians to work on their musicality.
An ethereal texture of singing bell and randomly-malleted notes gives way first to a traditional setting of the well-known Lenten hymn, followed by a more modern harmonization. A perfect choice for any Lenten service, or as a special musical offering on Good Friday.
Presented in a straightforward manner, this setting of the favorite English melody GREENSLEEVES is in 3/4 meter. Early work on bell changes (accidentals) should help to have this selection worked up quickly for the Christmas season.
A haunting singing bell chord begins this emotional rendition of the Christmas favorite. An arpeggiated middle section builds in intensity before dying away to return to the opening texture. A creative and original choice for your Advent season.
The simplicity and chordal structure makes this an ideal Lenten piece for beginning choirs or for those who need to learn something fast.
Marked "Tenderly, steady," this arrangement of William Billings' tune is pretty straightforward and easy to learn. Gentle syncopation in the accompaniment adds pulse and moves the music along.
A straightforward arrangement of this hymn tune except for 4 measures of 16th notes toward the end.
Jason Krug’s arrangement opens with sustained chords depicting the dawning of day as the melody is introduced in the inner voices. The piece grows in energy and excitement through a verse with propulsive eight notes before a minor verse comes in on chimes. A final chordal verse gives way to the triumphant conclusion. A fantastic choice for worship or concert!
Grab your tambourine and join in the jazzy rendition of this favorite spiritual! Lost of syncopated rhythms, colorful articulations and a zinger ending make this one your ringers (and congregation) will ask for again and again!
Traditional German carol. Hart Morris’s rousing arrangement of the popular Echo Carol is sure to delight listeners and ringers alike. Alternately delicate and bold, the arrangement makes liberal use of stopped sounds and syncopations. Interesting and unexpected harmonies help bring new life and vitality to the piece. Be sure to watch for the sudden, surprise ending!
Driving, syncopated martellatos underscore this rhythmic arrangement of the African-American spiritual. Bluesy harmonies abound, and the constantly-changing textures keep the piece interesting. With all players experiencing the melody, this is a great piece to work on balance and independence of line. A sure-fire winner!
This famous lullaby by Brahms is arranged for bells & opt. choirchimes. Suggestions are given for performance with and without choirchimes.
Handbells and optional handchimes are combined in this original work set in 3/4 time. The lively melody is supported by broken chords and staccato accompaniment. The music travels from f minor to c minor to g minor.
Two traditional English carols, "I Saw Three Ships" and "Good Christian Men, Rejoice," join together in this lilting arrangement in 6/8. "Bagpipe" like sounds introduce the work and are head in a later section. Listen for a surprise at the end!
André Thomas’s popular choral work for Christmas is the source for this delightful handbell arrangement. An energetic malleted bass pattern drives the piece through the first and final sections, enhanced by congas and shaker. The treble bells assume the role of the choir throughout. An optional part for soprano vocalist is also provided, making this arrangement truly festive.
A stately grand march for handbells and organ. The brass quartet, that may be used in place of organ, is scored for two Bb trumpets, horn in F (a trombone may be substituted for the horn), trombone, and timpani. The number is full and uses a minimum of stopped techniques. Very attainable by almost all handbell choirs. A festive number for a festive occasion.
The solemn splendor of that first Easter morning is masterfully recreated by Fred Gramann in this updated edition of his classic offering for the season. Handbells are featured alone, as well as together with the dynamic organ part.
Here's a majestic medley incorporating "America the Beautiful," "America," and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" that will thrill and inspire your congregation or audience. The handbell part is easy to assemble in this profound testament to the American spirit. Keyboard and Concert Band are optional.
This majestic, festive concertato on the hymn tune HYFRYDOL is designed for congregational singing, and includes optional parts and alternate texts as listed above, making this a very useful arrangement for various denominations. All parts are optional, however, and the piece can be played by handbells alone.
This versatile arrangement of a well-loved hymn can serve as a congregational hymn accompaniment, and ensemble piece for bells and organ, or for bells alone. Careful attention is paid to text painting as stanzas unfold. The organ part is by David Moklebust.
AGEHR commissioned this major new 12-minute work for handbells with optional wind ensemble, vocal ensemble, and four-hand piano for the 13th International Handbell Symposium in August, 2008. The three movements can be performed separately, each highlighting creative American themes.
The third piece in Sherman's American Tapestry, Spiritual is an arrangement of Down by the Riverside. Optional concert band.
The optional brass quintet may substitute for organ, if desired. When both brass and organ are used, suggestions are offered for the brass to tacet during parts of the piece. The setting may be played in its entirety, or sections may be used separately in various ways. The fanfare introduction and first variation may accompany congregational singing. The second variation modulates and is written in 6/8 time, including the use of handchimes on the melody. The rhythm and texture build on the third variation. A return to the original key and style features the organ trumpet on melody with handbells malleting the accompaniment. The fanfare returns to close the arrangement. Additional suggestions for use are offered. The piece is a festive, challenging and versatile addition to the Christmas celebration.
Gabriel Faure's beautiful original composition is arranged here for 5-6 octaves of bells AND 3 octave of handchimes. This composition is a great piece to work on musical expression in finest details. Delicate lines of music as well as strong, full passages offer contrast and depth.
Gabriel Faure's "Sicilienne", Op. 78 transcribed by Philip M. Young is an excellent addition to handbell choir repertoire.
This powerful fanfare begins with massive chords that transition into a virtuoso middle section where all bells, high, middle, and low, play the exciting sixteenth note theme.
This spirited original work pulses with energy created by syncopated rhythms and techniques scored for precise emphasis. Most of the work is written in 6/8, but notation is given that it may be felt in 3/4 as well.
Rhythmically driven from beginning to end, bass bell ringers get their time to shine in this energetic treatment of a popular spiritual. There are a few syncopated figures that will require special attention in rehearsal, but once learned, they are repeated throughout the piece. Set in c minor, measures total 99.
It is an original composition for handbells with an impressionistic/romantic feel to it. Some minor handbell changes will need to be worked out, and the piece is all straight ringing technique. It is a musical portrait that will challenge your ringers and please your audience.
Linda Boatright has created a totally enjoyable, toe tapping arrangement of three tunes written by Beach Boys Brian Wilson and Mike Love: Fun, Fun, Fun; California Girls and Surfin’ Safari. The judicious use of handchimes and a variety of stopped techniques add to the enjoyment for ringers and audience alike. Directors could opt to add a trap set and beach-y props for added excitement! This is sure to be an audience favorite.
What begins lovely and lyrical soon explodes in dance-like fashion as this well-known folk tune comes to life with bells, chimes, and an optional descanting instrument. At the close, Brian Seemann's arrangement floats back to earth, returning to its lovely and lyrical roots. It is ideal for church or concert performances by an advanced choir.
W. C. Handy is often referred to as the Father of the Blues. His ever popular “Saint Louis Blues” was first published in 1914, and has been performed by an impressive list of artists through the decades. “Saint Louis Blues March” was arranged for band by Jerry Gray in 1948, and was first played during the Big Band era by groups led by Glenn Miller and Tex Beneke. The stunning excitement of that band arrangement has now been brought to handbells! This stirring march utilizes a great variety of handbell techniques and offers wonderful challenges for all ringers. "Saint Louis Blues March" was recorded at the National Handbell Semianr by the All Stars ensemble, conducted by KC Congdon.
This original work from Matthew Prins is loaded with rhythm and excitement from the opening melody, which is malleted in the bass, to the final RT. Rhythm is Latin throughout – some sections being Latin/jazz swing while others are straight rhythm featuring table mallet, mallet roll, Sk, Vib and even having very cool R section in the low bass bells. There’s something to challenge and excite every ringer in your group. This is certain to be a show-stopper! Key of A Minor. 180 measures. Percussion is required and a performance mp3 is available for those groups who do not have access to the required percussion.
Perfect for a Sunday morning prelude or a lovely, quiet change of pace in a concert setting, Karen Lakey Buckwalter’s original composition, Contemplation, is a meditative piece featuring a lyrical and memorable melody. An edition for 26 string lever harp is also available, code CGIN1. The two editions are in the same key and may be played together if desired.
"Triumphant Entry" is the English translation of the title and suggests the style in which the piece should be played--majestically. The theme is reminiscent of a Hungarian, gypsy melody accompanied by full chords in section one and chromatic rhythms in the second. The arranger asks for a steady and not-too-brisk tempo. Brief performance notes and a bio on the arranger are included. Measures total 65.
G. F. Handel's original work, written for the crown heads of England, is just as festive and bright today, especially when played by bells, organ, brass and timpani! Ringers should enjoy being a part of a large work and the logistics are well worth the effort. Brass ensemble consists of 2 trumpets, Horn in F, Trumpet 3 or second Horn, Trombone, Tuba & Timpani.
This setting for 3-5 octaves and optional Bb2, handchimes (2 octaves) and clarinet or violin is based on Nurit Hirsh's original work. The Jewish flavor is enhanced through use of mallets on tabled bells in the accompaniment,. The middle section is calm and peaceful, but soon returns to the opening material. Separate parts are available for the instrumental parts.
Composed for Barbara Brocker, creator of the “bell tree keyboard,” the piece opens with a poignant melody accompanied by wistful harmonies. It soon transitions into rhythmic movement accompanying the exciting bell tree solo. By the end of the of the composition, all of the ringers in the choir have created their own miniature bell trees, and the piece ends with everyone playing their suspended bells with mallets. Optional handchimes 5 octaves.
Jason Krug brings us a refreshing setting of the steadfast "Amazing Grace." Including syncopation, cowbell, and alto saxophone (optional clarinet or flute also available), this unique selection is well-suited for a wide variety of worship or concert settings. Instrumental parts are available separately. 93 measures.
Written for 4 to 7 octave handbell choir with 4 to 7 octaves of handchimes, percussion and C intruments. Not for the faint of heart, Sandra Eithun’s original composition is sure to add a Spanish flair to any occasion! Driving accompaniments and contrasting rhythms propel the piece forward, and bold harmony choices maintain interest throughout. The mood is only enhanced by the inclusion of the percussion section and the lush countermelodies of the two C instruments. A rollicking good time!
The sparkling rhythms and memorable melody of this easy-to-learn original composition by Cynthia Dobrinski creates an exuberant, celebratory mood. Bell changes are minimal, and the optional flute and strategically placed handbell techniques add pizzazz. This piece is not only fun to play, but is sure to elevate the spirits of ringers and audiences alike
This 2014 pop rock hit from the band, OneRepublic, was cleverly arranged for the Distinctly Teen Handbell Ensemble, Pinnacle 2015. Carried by the driving malleted bass, this exhilarating piece is sure to enliven the listener and charge the musicians. Adding the optional percussion and electric bass will certainly enhance the concert experience. 111 measures. Key of g minor.
Yesu Ananipenda means “Jesus loves me” in Swahili, and is a joyful, upbeat original composition, which also includes the beloved Sunday School song, “Jesus Loves Me” by William Bradbury. This African-flavored piece will be uplifting and fun to play and to hear, with its varied rhythmic patterns, the use of many handbell techniques and African percussion instruments. Yesu Ananipenda will be a delightful addition to the worship or concert repertoire.
The piece is based on several characteristics of African music: call and response (vs. 1), overlaid patterns (vs. 2) and cross rhythms (percussion part).
Pop song by Coldplay. Last year we had a hit with the Keith Richards' arrangement of Coldplay's, "Clocks. " Kevin McChesney follows that up with another Coldplay title in an arrangement that begins with easy-to-master malleted patterns, and builds with excitement as the melody soars in the treble bells. Optional parts for Guitar, Bass, Drums, and Synth will add authenticity to the performance, creating a sure fire hit for younger audiences.
This well-crafted original composition has a strong, memorable melody in C Major. The middle section provides contrast in A minor with a lyrical chime melody before a powerful transition returns us to the memorable first melody. Both listeners and ringers will love this new original by Michael Mazzatenta.
The 5/8 meter of this original composition gives the music a lilt while the accented rhythms create a joyful, uplifting mood. There is no shortage of accidentals to keep ringers busy while generating interesting harmonies for those who are listening to this delightful piece. “5/8 Kyrie” is written in G Major and is 116 measures.
The performance notes provide the composer’s concept of this expressive composition. Beginning with the brisk “walk” with energy, following sections include “meeting a friend” expressed with interplay between melody and counter melodies, the slower “resting on a bench by a pond”, and the return of energy with the original theme as the “walker” heads for home. There is also an appropriate interpretation and alternate title, “New Every Morning”, if the piece is to be used in a religious service.
Combining “Away in the Manger”, “Silent Night” and “Jesus Loves Me”, the arranger has woven a warm and sensitive composition for the Christmas season. The exquisite addition of “Jesus Loves Me” to the two familiar Christmas carols creates a memorable moment in the service.
Kath has created a clever and appealing vehicle to demonstrate almost every possible handbell technique while performing variations on the tune “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star”. Audiences will love it and gain knowledge about handbell sounds and ringing techniques, which even incorporate a piece of paper and a bowl of water!
The family of a handbell enthusiast Wendy Hoskin commissioned this work, asking that it would reflect her positive personality and love for handbell music. It is thematic with six defined sections reflecting various ‘joys’ of ringing, such as, The Graciousness of Joy, Perseverance and Schlepping Handbells, and Resounding Joy! The different moods, tempi, and styles will keep the listeners engaged throughout. This piece was chosen for the Massed Ringing selection for Debbie Rice’s European Handbell Festival, June 2017.
Written specifically for a bell tree solo, with either handchime or handbell accompaniment, this is a lovely, lyrical piece suitable for any Christmas or holiday occasion. The recording features both handbell and handchime accompaniment. The belltree solo includes the notes ranging from B5 – F7.
With mallet rolls and clicks, finger snaps and thumb damps, this well-known theme is fun to ring! There is a modulation from the opening key of C major to the Key of D major for the second verse. This one is sure to lighten any concert! It is 57 measures in length.
This one is strictly for fun! A delightful arrangement of the charming song about a child’s Christmas wish, it provides a great opportunity for a lighthearted moment in your holiday concert. Scored in C Major and mostly consisting of stopped techniques, All I Want for Christmas is 50 measures.
Here is a heartwarming presentation of this treasured hymn. The accompaniment pattern for each verse is distinctive, reflecting the words of that verse. A key change and judicious use of several ringing techniques add to the interest of this delightful arrangement.
A traditional Puerto Rican children’s song, this merry arrangement is a delightful piece which presents excellent opportunities for strengthening eighth note ringing skills while learning the repetitive rhythmic melody. Information about the song, as well as the Spanish words and the English translation, is provided.
Here is a heartwarming presentation of three treasured American folk songs: Sweet Betsy from Pike, I've Been Working on the Railroad, Pop Goes the Weasel. The accompaniment pattern for each verse is distinctive, reflecting the words of that verse. A key change and judicious use of several ringing techniques add to the interest of this delightful arrangement.
Kevin has combined the contemporary song, “Ancient Words” with the Gospel favorite, “Wonderful Words of Life” for a work perfect for any worship service. The opening use of handchimes which then interweaves the chime melody with the bells is lovely. Excellent use of gentle mallets creates a rhythmic feel which then returns to the opening handchime theme. Your group will love ringing this piece!
And All Shall Clap Their Hands is rhythmic (with claps) and exciting – written in 6/8 time with measures alternating eighth notes in a triplet feel with three quarter notes. The tempo of dotted quarter = 92 – 100 gives the piece an energetic feel.
This arrangement of the hit song from the Broadway musical, Chicago, is sure to be a hit with your advanced group! It begins with a standard vamp in light swing style leading into the main theme played with handchimes. Then in measure 25, the ‘swing’ ceases and it is played in straight eighths to the end. What a terrific piece to add to your group’s library!
The intermittent unexpected harmonies in the opening chord progressions foretell the sorrow and agony expressed in this sensitive arrangement of the deeply emotional spiritual.
A festive arrangement of this favorite Christmas carol employs a variety of techniques to convey the exciting tone.
The angels make a quick fly by in this 37-measure arrangement of the Christmas carol. Performance notes and suggestions are written right into the score for easy access. 26 bells in the 3-octave range are rung by a quartet of ringers or a complete three octave choir. Set in C Major, this is a great selection for “filler” music, mall performances, etc.
A gentle melody presented in a prayerful setting, this piece is perfect to call a congregation to worship. The frequent use of the LV technique creates an appealing effect, and a section of chimes gives a mellow tone.
This lilting 90-measure arrangement is a refreshingly different treatment of the traditional Welsh folksong. The composer takes many “twists and turns” with both melody and harmonies, bringing unexpected interest and refreshing character to the piece as he modulates through five key changes (from G Major to C Major to Ab Major to Db Major to Bb Major).
This is an exquisite setting of the well-known composition. The flowing accompaniment enhances the beauty of this traditional sacred song. It is perfect for a wedding, church service, or concert. Set in C Major, it is 61 measures in length but does include a repeat.
Here is a lively, dance-like composition with all of the delight and charm that spirited Celtic music can bring. While there are no bell changes, the upbeat tempo and quick rhythms create a unique challenge for ringers. Set in d minor and C Major, this composition is 74 measures.
This is a gentle, lyrical arrangement of this hymn favorite. The arranger has used LV at the beginning to create an ethereal tower-bell effect and has featured the melody in both the bass and the upper octaves throughout. This arrangement would work beautifully during communion or other introspective aspect of worship.
This Cole Porter hit has been nicely arranged for bells and chimes with optional repeats for performance flexibility. Stopped sounds executed musically add to the ‘beguine’ style and the work has ample opportunity for expression throughout. It includes optional repeats for varying performance needs.
Bell Beguine is an original handbell solo by Danny Lyons. It is true to the ‘beguine’ style with Latin rhythm and a melody that will stay with listeners after the piece ends.