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Joy and Delight is a fun and energetic piece that will keep your ringers busy and your audience or congregation engaged. This is an excellent learning piece for developing ringers who are learning stopped techniques. Careful consideration was used so that ringers have time to transition in-between techniques, making ringing and malleting a Joy and a Delight! 2-3 octaves CGB 983 and 3-5 octaves CGB 984
Dan Edwards skillfully blends “Every Time I Feel the Spirit” with “This Little Light of Mine” in this joyful arrangement that makes use of an interesting variety of techniques. There is an alternate time signature printed, indicating more advanced groups might play this one in cut time. Either way, it will be a useful piece and a joy to ring. Set in C Major throughout, "My Spirit's Gonna Shine" is 103 measures.
This musically simple, yet extremely powerful original lullaby embodies the meaning of its title, "Peace." Suitable for Christmas or any time when peace is sought, the melody will linger with your ringers and audience long after the performance is over. 91 measures. Key of C Major.
"This land was made for you and me!" A favorite song from the pen of Woody Guthrie comes alive in this handbell arrangement for 3,4,5 or 6 octaves! Perfect for a festival setting. Mostly chordal texture with some moving passages that should be learned. There is even a special bass stave for G4 and below.
Karen Buckwalter has artfully combined three lesser-known Christmas carols into one gorgeous medley worthy of a spot in any Advent or Christmas service. The changes in texture, as well as the movement from bells to chimes and back, keep the piece interesting throughout. Intermediate ensembles will find just enough challenge to grow as musicians, while advanced ringers will enjoy the ability to enhance their expressive playing. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB743-Lullaby-Carols-PREVIEW.pdf
Karen Buckwalter has given us an innovative take on the beloved hymntune NICAEA. The opening gives the tune a meditative feel, complete with unexpected harmonies before growing in intensity to a more traditional, chordal setting of the tune. This arrangement will be equally at home in concert settings or church services throughout the year. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB742-Holy-Holy-Holy-PREVIEW.pdf
Michael Helman has given us this delicate medley of the tunes “In the Bleak Midwinter,” “Still, Still, Still,” and “Once In Royal David’s City.” Flowing accompaniments underpin the melody, and masterful handling of the optional handchimes give the piece an extra sense of majesty. A beautiful arrangement for use throughout the Advent or Christmas seasons. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB744-Christmas-Night-PREVIEW.pdf
This original tune full of syncopations and unexpected harmonic twists is the perfect choice for any moment of celebration! Varied textures and moods abound, keeping the piece interesting, while also keeping ringers engaged. A slower middle section allows time for reflection and introspection before a return to the celebratory motif ends the piece in joyful fashion. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB745-Celebrate-and-Remember-PREVIEW.pdf
From the pen of the talented Sandra Eithun comes this engaging setting of the hymntune MELITA. A haunting, slightly dissonant opening gives way to a verse of the tune underpinned by a slightly unsettled malleted accompaniment. Further verses of the tune explore different moods and emotions before a return to the feeling of the opening. A worthy choice for the ensemble wanting something a little different. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB746-Eternal-Father-Strong-to-Save-PREVIEW.pdf
Anna Laura Page brings us this flowing setting of a traditional English tune. Delicate in its simplicity, the lush scoring gives a very satisfying feeling to the piece. A worthy choice for the early intermediate ensemble looking to stretch their musicality this holiday season. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB747-How-Far-Is-It-to-Bethlehem-PREVIEW.pdf
This lush combination of the tunes WINCHESTER OLD and CHRISTMAS would make a beautiful addition to any holiday service or concert. Flowing lines abound, and unexpected harmonic twists keep things interesting throughout while providing just a small challenge to ringers. The piece builds in intensity before reaching a grand and glorious conclusion. VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB748-While-Shepherds-Watched-Their-Flocks-PREVIEW.pdf
A mysterious opening full of open fifths gives way to an introduction of the tune RESTORATION underscored by a driving eighth-note line. The tune receives numerous treatments, both stylistically and harmonically, before arriving at an explosive ending. An ideal choice for the intermediate ensemble looking for something fun and exciting! VIEW: https://bpifiles.com/PDF/HB750-Come-Ye-Sinners-Poor-and-Needy-PREVIEW.pdf
Commissioned by a church in celebration of their 50th anniversary, this arrangement makes use of the tune NETTLETON from John Wyeth's "A Repository of Scared music, 1813." Mallets on tabled bells in bouncy, fanfare rhythms provides the accompaniment for the first section. This is contrasted by a delicate section that incorporates five chimes in the 2-0ctave range on the melody. The final section returns to the opening material.
This original composition, subtitled "Song of Victory," captures a joyous mood from the opening dotted rhythm and continues to build in energy up to a middle section, which introduces a more melodic and flowing feel. The fanfare returns for a marvelous ending, making this an ideal celebratory piece for worship services or concerts
Mitchell Eithun's marvelous setting of this simple folk hymn uses a variety of techniques, as well as changes in tempo and dynamics, to create a lively arrangement that is as fun to hear as it is to play. Optional rhythm instruments (congas, claves, maracas, shakers; included in the Full Score) add to the fun and to the performance. Although only graded 1+, beginning and intermediate groups of all types are sure to love this one. 120 measures in the key of C Major.
Opening with a bright, contemporary fanfare, this energetic work presents a popular hymn tune in creative rhythmic, lyric, and chord-based variations. Unrestrained joy rings from every measure. This piece is 71 measures and is arranged in C and D Majors.
Challenging L4 romp in classic Celtic fiddling style in lively 6/8 meter, suitable for clogging to. In fact, its original version is a piece for 2 violins, cello and piano, as a movement of Suite for the Sweets, also by Catherine McMichael. Celtic Queen refers to the mom in the family that commissioned the piece. Each family member got a movement describing their particular personality and Celtic Queen describes a lady who is strong, hopeful, and loves to dance. Fast paced, multiple equipment and technical requirements, reading on 3 staves (the 3rd staff is C6 and above, when the layering gets too dense to read easily on one treble staff), busy bass patterns, and percussive effects make this an exciting and showy number for the choir who likes to have their bell rehearsal combined with aerobics class. Totally fun, exciting for ringer and listener alike. 97 measures. Key of d minor.
Here's a jaunty setting of the hymn tune MADRID. Set in 3/4 time and using techniques such as malleting and LV, this charming setting will serve your choirs well for many seasons to come.
This arrangement of Dona Nobis Pacem was the first-prize-winner in an internet arranging contest created by internationally renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma and sponsored by Sony Music and Indaba Music in 2009. Kevin McChesney and the Pikes Peak Ringers had the honor of recording this arrangement with Mr. Ma at the WBGH recording studios in Boston, MA.
This arrangement invokes the style of American Mountain and Bluegrass music. The opening malleted bass line mimics the plucked strings of the acoustic bass, the treble thumb-damped chords resemble the "chop" of the mandolin, and the melody sings forth as a violin in a mournful low register. This is arranged for 3-5 octaves with optional 3 octave handchimes
This delightful, joyful original composition is based on the words of Psalm 150. The psalm text is printed above the handbell part as a creative reference for the ringers and director. The main theme is presented by handchimes and singing bells in the slow, mystical introduction. An exciting, driving rhythmic section follows, accompanied by tambourine, triangle, and suspended cymbal, with various handbell techniques, multi-meters, and key changes weaving in and out. A lush and lyrical section provides a calming respite, before a brief return to the mystical feel of the beginning. A grand, glorious ending makes this piece a must-have for the church or concert handbell ensemble.
Commissioned by a bell choir in memory of a beloved ringer, this original work is based on that ringer's position, E6 and F6. The composer writes: Just a small pebble creates ripples in a pond, "Reflections" reminds us that each of us has a great impact on the lives of those around us. The result is picturesque, haunting, soothing, expressive, and memorable music. 93 measures.
Sandra Eithun's distinctive setting of MORECAMBE will lift the hearts of all who hear it. The captivating use of handchimes adds variety and depth for both ringers and congregations to enjoy. (From the collection "Easter and Beyond"--20/1885L)
Ron Mallory's exciting setting of this cherished hymn is suitable for Easter Sunday and the season following Easter as well. The driving rhythms are accentuated by syncopation and a malleted accompaniment. An optional B-flat trumpet part is available for free download.
Combining this well-known spiritual with a fast, yet "bluesy" feel creates a fun and exciting experience for players and listeners alike. The malleted bass ostinato adds intensity to the song. Creative and refreshing!
This winner of the 2020 Area 12 Composition Contest is a bright and rhythmic piece featuring soaring melodies and percussive accompaniment. Indicated to be performed “with passion,” this celebration of freedom is an energetic anthem appropriate for church, community, and festival groups. A total of 136 measures, Fervent Freedom is set in F Major with a section for optional chimes in Ab Major.
"Grace All Sufficient", written in response to Hurricane Harvey, is a powerful setting of the "Dies Irae" and the hymn tunes FOUNDATION, RESTORATION, and KING'S WESTON. A testament to God’s redemptive power, this piece shines in worship, festival, or concerts. 79 measures. Keys of d minor and c minor.
Crisp, malleted rhythms and optional snare drum underscore this energetic setting of the well-known traditional American tune. The piece travels through a variety of moods and keys while maintaining the same sense of urgency and excitement throughout. A great choice for any patriotic celebration! Snare drum part included in the handbell score.
For 3 to 6 octave handbells and organ or handbells, with brass and timpani, this setting of the powerful hymn "O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing" includes an optional SATB choral part, entering for a festive conclusion. Ideal for any service of praise, this expansive setting from Arnold B. Sherman offers a great opportunity to combine musical forces. Brass parts include: Conductor's Score, Trumpets, Horn in F/Trombone, Trombone, Tuba, Timpan
This setting of the hymn "Be Still, My Soul" captures both the tenderness and power of the hymn text and tune.
Ben Tucker strikes jazz magic again with this winning setting of the popular spiritual! Chromatics and a quasi-improv section, plus the added percussion make this piece zing! Perfect for worship or concert settings.
This is a hauntingly beautiful setting of the Jewish hymn, Adon Olam, which was written by Meir Finkelstein. Kimberlee has scored this poignant melody for cello with a flowing handbell choir accompaniment. It is a truly expressive and moving piece. 134 measures in length, it is scored in c minor.
We welcome Matt Compton to our handbell catalog with his exciting setting of the medieval hymn "Gaudete." The mixed meter and malleted accompaniment is a driving force in this pulsating arrangement, which leads to a brilliant finish.
This energetic treatment of the tune PERSONENT HODIE may be used at any time during the Christmas season, and is also a great festival choice. A rhythmic, malleted bass part drives the carol, with martellato and shaking used later in the piece, bringing the arrangement to a dramatic and festive close. Parts for finger cymbals, tenor drum, and tambourine are included with the full score.
"Roundelay" may be programmed with two other pieces, "Rhapsody" (RRBL5048) and "Reverie" (RRBL5049), to create a three movement work entitled "Triptych". The piece is written in a 6/8 and 3/4 meter feel. High energy tempo combined with varying thicknesses of texture and key changes keep the listener and ringer engaged. 2 octaves of handchimes are scored as well. A score for violin or C-instrument and percussion is sold separately. A total of 166 measures, this piece is written in c minor, a minor, and f minor.
This original piece is a timely prayer for the struggles of immigrants across the globe who flee tyranny and seek out a better life. Crafted by a noted handbell composer, the beautiful and haunting lyrical melody in g minor becomes increasingly intense throughout this musical journey, finishing as it began with a sense of reflection and prayer. 93 measures.
This show-stopping new arrangement is filled with joyful energy! The opening section is driven by bass mallet work and a fun 7/8 meter while the middle section provides contrast with handchimes. For an above average bell choir wanting a great new exciting Christmas piece. 91 measures. Key of F Major.
An arrangement by John A. Behnke of Norwegian tune DEN STORE HVIDE FLOK for 3–6 octave handbells. This hymn is especially appropriate for All Saints’ Day and use throughout End Times. Begins in the key of D Major, then modulates to Eb Major. 124 measures.
"Exultation" is a spirited new original piece with a catchy and memorable theme that always returns. Mart lifts and mallet work make this piece dance along. Contrast is provided with beautiful lyric interludes.
The opening measures feature the Singing Bell technique which leads into a lively 16 measure theme with a definite Celtic flair. The theme recurs between each verse of the carols. The accompanying optional Bodhran adds to the rhythmic intensity of this exhilarating arrangement. The most challenging aspect of this piece is its spirited “dotted quarter = 104” tempo. Scored in E♭ Major, it is 144 measures.
Alex Guebert brings us achingly beautiful music filled with sophistication and a heartfelt sense of beauty in a piece that is technically very straightforward and mastered quickly. This original work would be a very fine selection for both less and more experienced groups to show their musicality at its best.
Excitement, fun, and flexibility abound in this original composition. The entire piece was written to be malleted, with occasional mallet rolls, but it may also be rung. Moving mainly in quarter notes, the piece sounds a lot harder than it is. The tempo is quarter note equals 126-160 or faster, offering flexibility for various situations. The two editions are compatible for massed ringing. "Merry Heart" is written in C Major and is 62 measures. CGB 470 is 2-3 octaves.
Jason Krug gives us his own stirring take on this traditional hymn, and even those unfamiliar with the original tune will be moved to worship. Although it may be played on bells alone, the addition of the optional handchimes adds a nice touch. 117 measures. Keys of Eb Major, F Major, and G Major.
Wissinger creates a refreshing setting of the venerable hymn tune. The opening phrases are stated with conviction enhanced by the judicious use of stopped techniques. This is followed by a slower, contrasting, legato section with an arpeggiated bass, using the LV technique. The closing section is strong and rhythmic. Scored in C Major, this version is 53 measures in length.
Here is a lively, fun-filled work, rung in a swing style. Jazzin’is a challenging piece, full of accidentals, using all but 2 of the 5 octave range. It will keep every ringer busy regardless of their ringing assignment. Written for Ms. Wissinger’s “touch of Jesus” teen handbell choir, this piece will provide a joyful experience for ringers and audiences of any age.
This original composition is an educational etude, which introduces a variety of handbell techniques section by section. Helpful teaching notes by Ms. Wissinger, a nationally recognized clinician, are included. A versatile repertoire selection for any ringing event.
English composer Robin Benton has created this delightful, celebratory work for the 20th International Handbell Symposium to be held in Nashville, TN, in 2022. The Symposium theme is "Out of Many, One" – and that theme is honored within this original work. A delightful melody sets the ambiance and is beautifully developed in this joyous piece. A 'B' section is lyrical and rung on handchimes as it segues back to the original theme and style. Brief malleted and marted note passages add a nice touch as it continues to the exciting ending. The addition of timpani beautifully underlays this work. This is a fabulous piece for concert and worship or any celebration!
This piece was a very popular solo turned community sing-along tune of the 80s, which was popularized by Hong Kong pop singer Alan Tam. This song was widely sung throughout Asia at its time, because of its lyrics & melodic phrases. The song had the ability to arouse the emotions of the people, to encourage understanding, empathy, cooperation & most importantly, PEACE, especially in times of the uncertainties during the Cold War & tensions in the Middle East & various parts of the world, including the Falklands War and in later years, the 1st Gulf War. One could say, this song was Asia's answer to We Are The World, something to bring mankind together, to remind us that we are FRIENDS! 127 measures.
"Mosaic: Folk Songs of Canada" was chosen by the Handbell Musicians of Canada as their selection for the 19th International Handbell Symposium in Hong Kong in 2020. It features five Canadian folk songs: "Flunky Jim", "Feller from Fortune", "Red River Valley", "Ho Ho Watanay", and "Vive la Canadienne". Each of these unique tunes has been creatively arranged into this engaging collection. (Lyrics to these folk songs are included.) A variety of techniques - mart, mallet, SB, Sk RT and more - plus the addition of wood block, large hand drum, and spoons make this a fun and interesting work for everyone, Canadian or not!
There are some hidden meanings in the music. The seven key changes represent the seven colors of the rainbow. The three key signatures represent the three primary colors. The entire piece represents the array of light and color mixed together, always changing...never stagnant or dull. The primary key of G was chosen because all the bells could be used in a four octave set (excluding G#3) with the lowest tone, of course, being G. This work is 70 measures. This is the arrangement by Bob Avant. It is 5-7 octaves.
The tune TERRA BEATA is the basis for this flexible arrangement which includes optional parts for flute, organ and congregation. The tune is treated in a restful, flowing manner for two stanzas, then growing into a fuller sound for the final stanza. This arrangement may be used at almost any time during the church year.
Here is a buoyant setting of the traditional Thanksgiving hymn which incorporates the Welsh melody associated with the Fred Pratt Green text, "For the Fruit of All Creation. " The syncopated melody, colorful accompaniment, and optional Latin percussion all combine to depict joyful gratitude to God for all his blessings.
Although a short 29 measures, this original composition, written for the Raleigh Ringers, is packed full of expressive elements. Five octaves of chimes play the final passage including a low A2. It is a reflective work suitable for worship, school, or concert. LV is the main technique used for the eighth-note flowing passages prevalent throughout the piece. "Aria" is scored in F Major and f minor and is 29 measures.
All the vibrant energy of Widor's masterful writing for the "king of instruments" shines through in this exciting handbell arrangement. The organ's orchestral treatment is adapted to the handbell medium with the aid of various techniques (TD, HD, mallets, LV, Sk, and Pl), coupled with a dynamic palette ranging from pp to ff. A stunning cathedral-like conclusion features pealing treble handbells layered over powerful bass chords. The arranger has included handbell assignments for the chromatic passages to save you rehearsal time.
Commissioned by Stow Heritage Ringers of Stow, Ohio, Intrepid is an exciting original work full of intensity. Constantly-changing time signatures will challenge ringers, while the catchy melody will intrigue and engage listeners. The driving malleted bass gives way to a slower, softer section that remains in 4/4 but loses none of the energy of the opening. The initial material returns as the piece builds towards its end on an explosive final chord for a finish sure to send your audience to their feet!
This Irving Berlin hit from the late 1920s was featured in a film and was quite a hit! The title – Puttin’ On the Ritz – comes from the phrase meaning to ‘dress very fashionably,’ and that is exactly what Hart Morris has done with this piece. While being faithful to the original tune, he has dressed it in an amazingly ritzy yet elegant musical fashion. Brilliant use of a variety of stopped sounds, jazz improve-style sections in the lower bells, riffs and jazz-style accented notes are just some of the highlights. The last section has a ‘double-time’ feel and will have your audience on their feet by the end. This is truly a ‘must-ring’ for the advanced handbell ensemble.
Commissioned for the Area 12 Handbell Musicians of America Conference at Disneyland, this engaging piece will transport all you hear it to memories of favorite Disney movies. With a lovely, lilting waltz theme and creative use of optional chimes, your choir and listeners will envision one Disney image after another. This lovely work is 133 measures in length.
This hauntingly beautiful arrangement of the beloved contemporary Christmas song will captivate listeners through the use of compelling techniques, harmonies and dynamics. Perfect for concerts or worship.
This piece uses different handbell techniques to their fullest in combination with syncopated, driving rhythms. This setting will challenge most groups and leave your audience breathless. A great addition to the holiday repertoire from one of our newest gifted arrangers.
Commissioned by AGEHR Area VII to honor past President Al Marquardt, this powerful festival setting of the hymn LASST UNS ERFREUEN is great for Easter or any other Sunday. Ringers will enjoy the bell peals and fanfares, and they will captivate your congregation.
This title is the 50th AGEHR anniversary composition contest winner and is a majestic, well-crafted ABA composition by a new name. The inspiration for this piece and the principle thematic motive are based upon the musical pitches represented by the letters A-G-E-H-R. (H=B, R=re or D in a fixed do system) Measures total 93; this piece is scored in A Major and a minor.
The hymn tune "O Worship the King" (LYONS) is the basis of this challenging setting originally commissioned by the Raleigh Ringers and catalogued in the "Janus" Series of AGEHR Publishing. Fully scored textures keep everyone ringing. Arranged in C Major, it is 92 measures.
This is a restful piece written in the style of a Venetian boat song in 6/8. This was the 1986 AGEHR Area V Composition Contest Bronze Winner. Dotted-eighth-sixteenth rhythms are the norm here, as well as syncopation.
"Bell Rondelle" is the AGEHR Area II 1983 competition winner. Written in rondo form, it is ideal as a festival selection. It begins and ends with a largo section, with an andante maestoso section being sandwiched in between.
Winner of the 1999 AGEHR-Area II Young Ringer's Festival Original Composition contest Winner, this piece is full of those special techniques your ringers love to play. Available in two compatible editions, one for 2-3 octave choirs and one for 4-5 octave choirs.
Winner of the 1999 AGEHR-Area II Young Ringer's Festival Original Composition contest Winner, this piece is full of those special techniques your ringers love to play. Available in two compatible editions, one for 2-3 octave choirs and one for 4-5 octave choirs.
This exciting title is the winner of the Area 11 Young Ringers Composition Contest for the 50th Anniversary of the AGEHR. The committee agreed that this original work depicts the celebratory spirit of the anniversary celebration. Fanfare passages and soaring melody carry the work all the way through its 71 measures. It is available in 3-4, or 5 octave folios. The opening 16 measures may be rung in a processional.
This exciting title is the winner of the Area 11 Young Ringers Composition Contest for the 50th Anniversary of the AGEHR. The committee agreed that this original work depicts the celebratory spirit of the anniversary celebration. Fanfare passages and soaring melody carry the work all the way through its 71 measures. It is available in 3-4, or 5 octave folios. The opening 16 measures may be rung in a processional.
Cinquenta has both a haunting, lyrical melodic theme that reflects the simple Appalachian simplicity and the pentatonic roots of American music and the comtemporary rhythmic accompaniment that provides a festive atmosphere - just perfect for the celebration of the AGEHR 50th anniversary and Area V's contribution to that celebration. At first glance the piece appears complex, but the repeated rhythmic-pentatonic ostinato is carefully patterned and can be quickly learned by beginning choirs. Additionally, children playing Orff instruments can be added to allow a "random" pentatonic feel in the 5/4 sections. Explore the textures of different bell sounds throughout the piece, even explore the possibility of other "ringing" percussion; tubular bells, chimes, various bell manufacturers, xylophones or glockenspiel and any other ringing percussion sounds! Explore ALL your options to make the piece more festive and exciting!
From the composer of AGEHR's 50th Anniversary Composition Contest winner, here's an exquisitely beautiful arrangement of the "Ubi Caritas" chant antiphon. The subtitle is "Where Love and Charity Are Found." This piece provides much opportunity for expressiveness. Measures total 82.
Winner of the 1997 AGEHR - AREA II Festival - Conference Young Ringers Original Composition Contest, "Conversation" is an antiphonal dialogue between Choir I (2 to 3-octaves of hand chimes) and Choir II (3 to 5-octaves of hand bells). The composer writes, "This is a program piece. Choir I is the voice of the child and Choir II signifies the parents." If only one choir is available, the other part may be played on a keyboard instrument. If wanted, dancers may interpret the music while it is being played. A big sounding work that begins in g minor, but with easily played rhythms.
The 1983 AGEHR Area V Contest Co-winner, "Episode in C" is a lengthy, busy work for the advanced bell choir!
A commissioned work by Area 3 of the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers (AGEHR), this composition is based on two themes. The first is a musical representation of the letters AGEHR (H & R note assignment is explained in the performance notes). The second theme is the hymn tune Lasst uns Erfreuen or "All Creatures of Our God and King." Grand and glorious with lots of techniques and special effects.
This piece was the winning composition in the 2003 AGEHR Area III contest in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the AGEHR. These octavos stand alone or may be played together (as in a festival setting).
This piece was the winning composition in the 2003 AGEHR Area III contest in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the AGEHR. These octavos stand alone or may be played together (as in a festival setting).
Winner of the 2007 AGEHR Area II Young Ringers Composition Contest, this piece contains a setting of the original tune and then four variations. The variations incorporate a change in meter, mallets, echo, and martellato. An excellent teaching piece, measures total 153.
“Crossroads“ is an original piece by well-known composer Bill Payn. Written for the 10th anniversary of AGEHR’s Distinctly Bronze event, this beautiful piece features low bass chimes and sixteenth-note passages that will engage all of your players.
1997 AGEHR National Composition Contest Winner. An original composition for 2-3 octaves of bells. The texture is light and frothy and the tempo lively.
AGEHR is proud to add J. D. Frizzell to our roster of fine handbell composers with his work, “For the Beauty of the Earth.”
"Four Original Pieces" contains three unique compositions and a folk song arrangement by the AGEHR honored life-time member E.J. Hilty. Moods of the selections are varied, as are the technical requirements, but they are well worth the effort.
Here's the 2006 AGEHR Area III Composition Contest Winner in compatible 2-3 and 3-5 octave arrangements. This original piece is perfect for church or festival.
Here's the 2006 AGEHR Area III Composition Contest Winner in compatible 2-3 and 3-5 octave arrangements. This original piece is perfect for church or festival.
Commissioned by AGEHR Area IX for their 2008 Festival Conference, AWAKE MY HEART, opens with moderately soft chord progressions before stating the lyrical melody. The accompaniment provides a swaying effect while the optional flute enhances the overall charm of the piece. The tone of the middle section changes to an energetic, syncopated rhythmic pattern, alternating between 4/4 and 3/4 time signatures. There is a brief return to the melodic opening section before the piece concludes. Written in Ab Major, measures total 201.
You can feel the train pull out of the station as Stephenson's opening whole note chords break into half notes and then move into quarter notes, picking up speed with eighth notes until you hear the familiar strain of "Pardon me, boy, is that the Chattanooga Choo Choo?" The excitement, momentum and speed of Harry Warren's popular tune are all found in this fabulous arrangement, with its syncopated rhythm and mart lifts. More advanced choirs might want to perform this in "swing" style, lending an even more authentic "ring" to the performance.
Reproducible! Book 1, Part 1:From tolls, peals, shakes, and random rings to descants, countermelodies, and cacophony. Part 2: Handbells in hymnsinging. This volume offers a variety of creative ideas for the use of handbells in your congregational hymn singing. Suggestions range from the use of a single bell to a full handbell choir. All of the handbell parts may be reproduced for your choir. A second volume (#8282) is a sequel and may also be of interest.
Area II AGEHR winning composition. Good for massed ringing or on any festive occasion.
Easy, cheerful and melodic. Multiple techniques add excitement to this Area V, 1992 AGEHR contest winner.
The 1980 AGEHR composition winner for Area V.
This festive piece took 1987 Eastern National AGEHR festivals by "storm". It is very rhythmic and with addition of percussion is a "show stopper". Concert or church!
Moonlight Lullaby" is a wide-spreading and well-known Canton (Guangdong) nursery rhyme that mothers will sing to their babies during bedtime. It displays the typical daily life of a Chinese fishing/farming family, the wishes of babies' health and peace from the parents to the newborns and the hope for a bumper harvest in the New Year. This arrangement intends to retain the traditional flavor of the rhyme by engaging the different tone qualities of handbells and handchimes; it can also be performed with an optional two-part treble choir. 61 measures.
This exciting original composition for handbells was written by a new name to our AGEHR catalog. When the original melody subsides, the contrasting middle section provides thumb damps and chimes in all the right places. With lively rhythms and a contagious melody, Joy! will become your choir’s new favorite piece. 91 measures. Key of Eb Major.
The "Janus" Series from AGEHR publishing is for advanced ensembles. This original composition was commissioned in memory of a loved one and is based on Psalm 37:37. The music, like life, is filled with varying fabric and moods. Flute and Clarinet are required for the piece and begin the work by simply stating the melody in 2 parts.
We hear of more and more bell choirs that do not have enough ringers for a full choir but want to continue ringing with those they have. “Kum Ba Yah” is a marvelous example of a creative arrangement that meets the needs of such a small ensemble.
This original composition was the winner of the 2007 AGEHR Area II festival conference. An optional flute line enhances the music, especially the lament portion. A flowing first section is contrasted with a bouncing second section that can hardly contain itself! Written in the keys of c minor and g minor, measures total 115.
An ethereal opening gives way to a driving, arpeggiated figure replete with syncopations and jubilant energy! The piece builds in energy and intensity throughout before fading away with echoes of the opening once more. A fun piece for worship or concert use! VIEW: wtmkGMH350013 Aglow Purchase of this PDF grants permission to broadcast or live stream performances.
This delightful Puerto Rican “danza” was one of many danzas written by gifted Puerto Rican pianist and composer, José Ignacio Quintón. Blanco y Azul (White and Blue) is elegant and graceful, much in the style of ballroom dance scenes, complete with elegant gowns and evening wear for the men. The melody is engaging and the gentle rhythmic accompaniment does make one want to dance! It begins in D-major with two distinct melodic sections. A segue to G-major features a variation on the melody in the ‘4s’ with a lovely contrapuntal line in the treble before returning to the ‘A’ section in D-major. With a few exceptions, the foundational bass is gently malleted throughout. This is a 2022 Distinctly Bronze West selection.
Upper bells vs. lower bells, 3/4 vs. 6/8, mf vs. ff and chimes vs. bells are some of the major contrasts that give this original, fast-paced composition its' name. A slow beginning soon gives way to quarter= 120 and a displaced accent gives drive to the rhythm. Super concert piece.
This transcription of the masterful Tchaikovsky work was written for Distinctly Bronze and will thus prove to be a challenge for even the most daring advanced choir. The slow and subdued opening, based on a Russian folk song, gives way to a fast and frolicking main theme. This theme, based on a Russian dance tune, features sixteenth-note runs in the treble and malleted bells in the bass that mimic the strings of the original work and dominates much of the work. Just as the piece seems to end, however, a much slower passage takes over before the piece returns to its hurried pace and rushes to its true end, with ringers triumphant and audience on its feet!
This composition is the 1991 AGEHR National Composition Contest Winner. A contemporary piece which explores multiple rhythms (3/4, 4/4, 9/8, 7/8, etc.) as well as multiple techniques.
Transcribed for handbells Estonian composer Elo Kesküla, this setting will keep ringers engaged and listeners enchanted. Humoresque would a delightful addition for a concert setting. 56 measures. Keys of G Major and g minor.