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Haunting in its simplicity, this cherished American folk song begins quietly, the builds to a climax as the waters roll faster. Rich timbres and fluid arpeggios enhance the beauty of this heartfelt arrangement.
This slow, romantic piece depicts a chance encounter of two former lovers who share a moment of reminiscence before going their separate ways once more. Complex harmonies and subtle musical nuance propel the piece through a whirlwind of emotions that resolve to a bittersweet final chord. This is a wonderful piece to showcase your ensemble's musicality. 92 measures. Key of e minor.
The beautiful folk tune is set for 4 to 6 octaves of bells and 2-octaves of choir chimes (optional). A flowing LV accompaniment is set up before the melody enters in sixths. After a key change the melody finds its way into the middle bells with a running eighth-note accompaniment above. Chimes enter on a short transition through another key change where the last section of the melody is presented with reflection. Scored in D Major, Eb Major, and G Major, this piece is 45 measures.
Be All Merrie - A Celtic Frolic, is a 4 minute high-voltage romp employing plenty of fast ringing, sonorous harmony, multiple articulation techniques (often at the same time), and unstoppable good vibes (literally!) The Celtic flavor is tart and cheery. Written to showcase the Charlotte Bronze handbell ensemble, the piece was commissioned from Catherine McMichael to recognize the birthday of one of CB's longest and liveliest donors, nonagenarian Lavon Kendrick. Your bronze-or almost bronze-level choir will frolic through this one, and your listeners will be left breathless.
Originally from the motion picture "The Mission", this tune is often voted one of the loveliest melodies in existence and has since become a standard of instrumental repertoire. Master arranger Kevin McChesney captures its beauty completely in this wonderful arrangement. 65 measures. Key of Eb Major. WATCH AND LISTEN: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9CUghkNcuE
This Carl Wiltse original for 5-6 octaves includes an optional solo of "Dona Nobis Pacem" for voice(s) or instrument in C or B-flat (parts included). The solo part could also be played on handchimes by a second choir or a solo ringer. This lovely 108-measure arrangement is set in F Major.
The title sets the mood perfectly for this upbeat, original handbell composition. An air of toe-tapping celebration, punctuated by shakes and martellatos, is maintained from the opening downbeat to the final cut-off. Although useful in a variety of ways, the piece serves especially well as either a concert opener or a worship prelude.
RESTORED is an original piece for handbells that offers the listener a sense of calm in spite of life’s turbulent times. After a sad or frustrating experience, we can always call to mind the phrase from Psalm 23:3, “He Restores My Soul.” The opening section of the piece is contemplative and exposed. The uplifting theme is then introduced and evolves into a quiet and brooding middle section. To remind us of the title, there is a modulation leading into an uplifting and hopeful ending. This piece offers an enormous opportunity to work on expression and dynamic variance, and is perfect for church, concert or festival venues. PREVIEW: RESTORED
Mallets, shakes and tower swings – oh my! “Peals of Praise” combines original material with pealing scales and strains of Westminster Chimes. The lyrical center section provides a change of pace with optional handchimes, followed by a return to the driving, malleted opening material. Perfect for church or concert venue, “Peals of Praise” will be a wonderful addition to your handbell library! Editions for 2-3 (CGB 1322) and 3-5 (CGB 1323) octaves are available, as well as a full score (CGB 1321) for massed ringing conductors. PREVIEW: PEALS OF PRAISE
This upbeat original piece was commissioned by the Handbell Musicians of America Area 7 in honor of their Area Chair, Lori Potter. In ABA form, the reflective B section contrasts the rhythmic and joyously rocking A section, making it a winner for ringers and listeners alike! Key of C Major. 191 measures.
For the ensemble wanting to play without ever picking up a bell, look no further! The entire piece is played on the table with mallets, something sure to intrigue your audiences! A triumphant opening verse gives way to a more sedate middle verse before a final drive into the joyous conclusion. Compatible editions for smaller and larger ensembles make this a perfect choice for massed ringing! 2-3 octave edition of this piece, GMH 230023 and the 3-6 octave edition is GMH 350030 LISTEN: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYI_dOMyCzM
Truly a unique work, this piece features Robert Lowry's rhythmic hymn tune supported in part by a "singing bell" technique, which uses round sticks rubbed around the outer rim of the bell, for a truly ethereal sound. Full instructions for this technique plus a biography on Robert Lowry and the full lyrics for the hymn are included. Set in F Major, measures total 60.
Considered to be one of the greatest texts and tunes from the 20th century, this classic hymn gives rise to the greatness that it invokes in worshiping God, our Creator. Joel Raney has set it for 3-5 octaves handbells with optional 3-5 oct. handchimes, used both melodically and harmonically to add remarkable interest. The masterful transitions and modulations provide awe-inspired moments of grandeur that are worthy of this hymn of praise
This original composition is catchy and upbeat. The syncopated ostinato pattern is woven masterfully throughout. WATCH AND LISTEN: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5TkFxIYzPI
This lush setting of the hymntune DIX is a delight for audiences and ringers alike. The varying keys and styles continuously cast the tune in a new light, bringing a fresh take to a beloved favorite! There is also a compatible 3-6 octave edition of this piece, GMH350062, available as a digital site license. Purchase of this PDF grants permission to broadcast or live stream performances.
Your musicians will get the chance to focus on their musicality with this beautiful original composition. Alternating between passages both prayerful and haunting, this work is sure to elicit a deep emotional response from audience and ringer alike. With minimal technical challenges, ensembles can instead focus on bringing meaning to their performance. PREVIEW: hb490-appassionata LISTEN:
Jason Krug has written a very energetic and moving setting of Martin Luther’s great Reformation hymn. Pay close attention to the dynamics throughout for a musical performance. Meter changes and bells changes will offer some challenges, but once mastered, this one will wow your ringers and your audience. Key of C Major. 111 measures. LISTEN:
Filled with energy and a variety of techniques, this original composition features a contrasting middle section that makes this a delightful selection for your next festival, concert or worship service. Commissioned by Highland Hills Middle School for their State Music Educators conference performance. WATCH AND LISTEN: https://youtu.be/03UKCR7G71g
This lovely medley of Christmas Carols is sure to help you bring in the season. Woven together masterfully, you will hear “It Came upon the Midnight Clear,” “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” and “Silent Night! Holy Night!” WATCH AND LISTEN: https://youtu.be/6Ugi_naftGE
Composer Jon Schmidt took a theme by Carl Sandquist and created this lovely piece – of which he said, “Playing this song is like playing the sunrise.” Stephanie has adapted it beautifully for 5 octaves handbells. It is nicely arranged using simple and exposed melody and accompaniment lines. It is filled with opportunities for expression and needs to be played with sensitivity and awareness of how melody and accompaniment complement each other. This is sure to be a favorite of ringers and audiences alike. LISTEN:
Selected for the 17th International Handbell Symposium 2016 in Vancouver, Canada, Recollection is a soothing, lyrical composition with flexible instrumental options. While the piece may be rung with just chimes and/or bells, the addition of the optional instrument(s) adds much to the musical context. Recollection is excellent for teaching musicality and expressive musicianship. It will provide meditative moments in worship, and be effective in concerts and festivals. VIEW PDF: cgb974recollection LISTEN:
Ringers and audiences will love this groovy arrangement of the gospel standard by Edwin Hawkins, and skillfully arranged by Tammy Waldrop. Bells and chimes weave a call and response in this buoyant setting. VIEW PDF: 00-47794Oh Happy Day
Pepper Choplin’s creativity shines in this evocative intertwining of a 13th-century chant with one of the most popular carol tunes ever penned. Scored in C Major and Db Major, the music begins with the simple introduction of “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” over open fifths and flows in and out of counterpoint with “Silent Night, Holy Night.” This 91-measure piece would make an especially effective addition for Christmas Eve worship.
In response to the tragic shootings in Orlando on June 12, 2016, and for all who have lost loved ones due to hate, intolerance, and violence, Michael Helman composed this emotional original work. Appropriate for worship, festivals, concerts, or times of remembrance, this lyrical piece incorporates three key changes and effective use of handchimes to challenge your ringers and uplift everyone's spirits. LISTEN:
"It's Time for Sayang Sayang" was the theme song for a Peranakan (mixed Chinese and Malay/Indonesian heritage) Christmas in a Singaporean shopping mall and became the theme song of the Peranakan Musical BIBIKS GO BROADWAY in 2003. In the later years, this song became the title for a local TV serial and was also performed at the National Day Parade.
Psalm 139 is among those which are addressed to the "leader" or "choirmaster". The language assures us that God knows us thoroughly and in all situations, doing so by employing contrasting ideas: 'when I sit / when I rise'; 'if I go up to the heavens / if I make my bed in the depths'; 'If I rise on the wings of the dawn / surely the darkness of night will hide me.' This musical interpretation of this Psalm strives to be a joyful, confident response, with melodic lines that rise, then fall, only to rise again even higher. The central section explores the relative minor key, reflecting on the final two verses of the Psalm which invite God to inventory our defects and lead us to higher ground.
This driving, magnetic setting of MADRID features optional parts for flute and percussion. The additional parts bring it all to life and compel all Christians to Come, join to sing!
This hit song from the 1970s has been artfully arranged for handbells and is true to the original work. A very effective mix of stopped sounds and ringing makes this a delightful work, perfect for your next concert. You will definitely want to add this one to your repertoire.
This fresh, new, original composition is accurately representative of Brazilian rhythm and style. The bass line drives the rhythm throughout and features a nice mix of mallets, LVs, and ringing. The engaging melody in the treble bells flows nicely and is offset by perfectly written counter-melody in both bells and handchimes. Occasional malleted sections in the battery with a few mallet rolls, mart-lifts and RT compliment the bass line. This a thoroughly sophisticated, delightful piece that will provide a rewarding challenge for your Bronze group – and will delight the audience!
This stellar setting of the Christmas favorite – Noël Nouvelet – was commissioned by Concert Bells of Fort Worth, TX, in celebration of their 25th anniversary – and Fred has created this glorious arrangement fitting for such an occasion. It begins with an ethereal and expressive opening ringing the first six tones of the carol supported by either handchimes using vib technique or handbells with echoes. The audience will be mesmerized by the sound when suddenly, an energetic LV eight-measure passage introduces the main carol theme. Perfectly placed LV peal-like passages, dynamics, including melody and counter-melody passages intertwine leading to what may feel like a climactic ending of this ‘Prelude’ portion of the work. However, a solo melody line then introduces the Fugue which is brilliant and magical in every way. J.S. Bach would be impressed with the development and beautifully-crafted contrapuntal writing which includes two well-crafted key changes and more! All will be totally engaged as this creation moves to its glorious climax featuring descending 16th note LV peals and the final chords. Words cannot possibly do justice to this outstanding arrangement. It is a definite ‘must have’ selection for all accomplished groups. LISTEN AND WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6M_Zz09Xkc
"Fanfare and Intrada" is a bold and original 3-5 octave handbell composition by Jason W. Krug. The piece opens with a grand fanfare, with the bells ringing out in triumphant bursts of sound that build in intensity. A more reflective middle section offers a respite before the return of the driving rhythm of the opening. This exciting original is not to be missed! PREVIEW: HB777_Fanfare and Intrada-PREVIEW
Czech composer, Antonin Dvorak, is regarded as one of the greatest composers of the nationlist movement. Handbell transcriber, Valerie Stephenson has set dance no. 8 from opus 46 feeling that it lends itself perfectly to the handbell idiom. Performance notes are given to aid the execution of articulations and texture. 149 lively measures.
"And the Trees Do Moan" is a harmonically intriguing arrangement of a Southern Mountain Folk Song. It is written in c minor, but has many accidentals as well as suggestions for damping certain bells. With a mix of chords and flowing passages, it is 83 measures of listening interest. Two verses of text are printed at the end of the piece. Though specified as a handbell piece, because of the few special techniques required, it is possible that a 5 octave chime choir may be able to ring it. In the valley of Judea, Cold and wintry blown, Christ was born one frosty morning, And the trees do moan. Darkened skies, and men a-stumbling; High above there shone One bright star a-moving Eastward, Where the tress do moan. Herod and the ruling Romans Stately sat upon the throne, Sent the soldiers out a-looking, And the trees do moan, And the trees do moan. Mary took her little baby, Set out all alone; Down in Egypt land they tarried, Where the trees do moan. Jesus then became a carpenter, Worked with wood and stone; Nails he drove and cross-arms fashioned, And the trees do moan. There one day while in the forest black, One tree he picked for his own, A Christmas tree, an evergreen one, And the trees do moan, And the trees do moan.
Based on the first movement of Mozart's Symphony No. 40, this arrangement features the familiar opening section to this beloved work. Dan Edwards’ memorable arrangement provides handbell choirs with another favorite from the world of classical music This will be an excellent choice for concerts and festivals.
This setting of the familiar English melody is contemplative and mystical and is especially effective during Advent and Christmas. Mallets and finger cymbals are widely used throughout.
The Rescue is the third movement of “Nero’s Suite for Handbells.” It features a dedicated cajón part which adds excitement to this well-crafted work. Composed in 6/8 time, it exudes energy throughout and features an engaging melody supported by strong rhythms and occasional counter-melodies. It begins in A-minor with a very nice segue to D-minor. This is sure to be an audience-pleaser and ringers will have great fun ringing it!
This lively Latin folk tune is based on the text in Matthew 17:20: If you have faith as small as a mustard seed … nothing will be impossible for you.” The rhythm is strong and central to this tune and is reflective of many of the rhythms with African origins which became central to the Caribbean and South American “Latin” musical style. The melody and harmonies are engaging and filled with energy. Brian has used a variety of stopped sounds including TD, RT, and malleted bells, offset by rests and syncopation to bring this exciting work alive. The melody is briefly rung on handchimes while bells maintain the rhythmic style in the accompaniment. Dynamics and well-placed marts add to the excitement of this piece. The addition of improvised Latin percussion instruments such as guiro, maracas, and timbales will top this off! You may choose to include the lyrics in your program notes to enhance worship or concert performance.
An original composition. One of the handbell classics and one of Dobrinski's best. Copyright 1986
NEXUS by Matthew Compton for 5-8 Octaves Handbells, 3-7 Octaves Handchimes, and 3 Octaves Silver Melody Bells, Level V Commissioned by the Pikes Peak Ringers, Atlanta Concert Ringers, and Forté Handbell Quartet and premiered as a surprise to honor Kevin McChesney at his final concert as conductor of the Pikes Peak Ringers, Nexus is a fiery original composition by Matthew Compton that will captivate both ringers and audiences from start to finish. It features 5+ octaves of handbells as well as chimes and Silver Melody Bells (or some other contrasting texture), syncopation and mixed meters, and engaging melodic lines, and is a sure winner in any concert lineup. https://sonologymusic.com/product/musical-score/handbell-choir/sm23-10
A collection of 4 original pieces for level 1 ringers. Instruction, games, and fun abound!
A new collection of 4 original pieces for level 1 ringers that starts to acquaint ringers with accidentals, new techniques, and musicality.
Again a collection of 4 original pieces for level 1 and 2 ringers that challenge and encourage advancement.
Level 1+ • This beloved, hauntingly beautiful piece is published in two compatible and accessible editions for handbells or handchimes. The piece contains solid block chords with few accidentals and makes use of easy bell techniques, such as LV, shake, and vibrato. It teaches dynamic contrasts, various simple tempo changes, and is a good piece to introduce voice-leading lines through balancing the melody against the continuous quarter-note pattern of the accompaniment. 3-5 octaves CGB 596
Level 1+ • This beloved, hauntingly beautiful piece is published in two compatible and accessible editions for handbells or handchimes. The piece contains solid block chords with few accidentals and makes use of easy bell techniques, such as LV, shake, and vibrato. It teaches dynamic contrasts, various simple tempo changes, and is a good piece to introduce voice-leading lines through balancing the melody against the continuous quarter-note pattern of the accompaniment. 2-3 octaves CGB 595
Level 3 • This energetic and exciting setting of the traditional spiritual “Behold the Star” also features the favorite “Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow.” Ringers will enjoy syncopated rhythms and various articulations as they prepare for special ringing opportunities during the Christmas season. This arrangement promises to be a favorite for all!
Level 2 • As the name suggests, this piece is intended to be a musical prayer. Fitting as a quiet prelude, a meditative response to prayer, or as any devotional music for worship, listeners will appreciate the memorable melody for its beauty and contemplative quality. Its simple elegance will also make this piece a lovely, reflective selection in a concert or festival setting.
3, 4 or 5 octaves o General o Level 2 o This gentle, lyrical original composition displays the ability of handbells to play delicate, flowing melodic lines. Suitable for either a concert program or a worship service, the piece also allows ample opportunity to teach phrasing and dynamic shading.
Level 1+ • This meditative setting of a seventeenth-century German chorale is appropriate for any time of the year. The arrangement involves key changes but no other bell changes within each section. It is a good piece for introducing your ensemble to key changes and for training ringers to play musically, emphasizing melodies in various ranges.
Level 1+ • This happy, dancing arrangement of the beloved French Christmas carol is playable in either three beats or one beat to the measure, depending upon the ability of the group. Techniques include LV, malleted bells, thumb-damping, and shaking. Optional parts for chime tree, triangle, and tambourine are included. An edition for 2 or 3 octaves (CGB 496) is also available, and the two are compatible for massed ringing.
Level 3 • "A Call to Celebration" is a festive, original composition filled with energy. This exciting work pulsates with driving rhythms and strong, memorable melodies within each of the contrasting sections of its rondo form.
Level 3+ • This spirited original composition is written in ABACA form. Tempo changes, accidentals, plucking, swings, and martellato lifts in the A sections will challenge bass ringers, while treble ringers will enjoy fast-paced eighth notes in alternating 4/4 and 6/8 meters. Modulating into A minor, the B section features a slower, poignant melody accompanied by treble-bell chimes and echoes in the bass. The third section introduces yet another melody as it modulates to A flat major. This section features flowing eighth notes and rich melodic harmonies. “Chanson Joyeuse” brings the listener through a multitude of emotions and surely evokes the passion of life’s journey.
If your choir normally rings level one music, challenge them up a step with this setting of a triumphant folk tune. Fully scored to keep everyone involved, strong steady rhythms, terraced dynamics, and a few bell changes add that extra "oomph" of skill building and enjoyment. Forty-nine measures in length.
This lively level 1 offering combines the well-known title tune with MICHAEL for a pleasing arrangement featuring malleted notes, echoes, shakes and RT. Audiences and ringers might know these tunes as "I've Got Peace Like a River" and "Michael Row the Boat Ashore." This medley is 57 measures.
All of the more difficult parts in this Level 1 arrangement are found in the keyboard part, allowing this beloved American melody to be played by beginning choirs. The only 4th octave note used is the G3. An accompaniment CD is also available, containing performance tracks at two tempos and a demo with the handbell part included. Scored in G Major, this rendition is 60 measures.
Carol Scheel brings us this excellent level one piece. Very new groups may begin it with a slower tempo, and the full chords will make it easier for beginners. Suitable for most any program or worship service, it is also a good opportunity to teach dynamics and TD.
Marked as an easy-level quartet, ringers are helped by performance notes written right into the score. Only two pages in length, the 3-octave score includes all four parts on one page. Marked joyfully, the ringers should try to work for a tempo to match.
This entry-level quartet is arranged with cues and suggestions for hand and bell movement written into the score. All four parts are notated on the grand staff with no page turns. The slow, ponderous tempo affords plenty of time to change bells. 32 measures with repeats. Scored in g minor.
Marked as an easy-level quartet, ringers are helped by performance notes written right into the score. Only two pages in length, the 3-octave score includes all four parts on one page. Though not notated, this would work well with chimes.
Marked as a medium-level difficulty quartet, ringers will find the challenge in counting eighth-note rests and chromatic bell changes. The 4-octave score includes all four parts on one page with eight pages in all.
These two original, Level 1 compositions scored for F5-D6, are suitable for bells or chimes. Using chimes for DAYBREAK helps convey the quiet breaking of the dawn. In TWO-PART INVENTION the six notes are woven into two distinct lines. There are no page turns within the piece, and each piece is written in G Major.
Two more original Level 2 compositions are now available for three ringers using ringing positions F5-D6. Eighth notes in SLEIGH BELLS emulate the sound of sleigh bells; there are no bell changes or page turns, and it is written in G Major. AUTUMN RAINS, scored in g minor, provides a nice change in mood especially when played on chimes. It has bell changes for F5 but no page turns.
"Glad Morning", a Level 2 composition, accommodates a flexible number of ringers. It requires a minimum of four ringers; the score lists several options for adding any number of additional ringers up to eight. A two-octave instrument is needed for 4 or 5 ringers; 6, 7, or 8 ringers will need 3 octaves. Although one bass clef ringer is assigned C4, D4, and G4, the bell changes are not hard; in the treble clef F#6, G6, and A6 are assigned to one ringer. There are no bell changes for the other positions. Scored in G Major, "Glad Morning" is 41 measures.
"At Christmas Time", a Level 2 medley of carols, is scored for 5, 6, 7, or 8 ringers. Seven or fewer ringers can use a 2-octave instrument; the 8th ringer needs Eb4-F#4. Carols included are "Angels from the Realms of Glory, Away in a Manger, and Good Christian Men, Rejoice." Although suitable for handbells or handchimes, handbells are suggested for the opening and closing carols and handchimes preferred for "Away in Manger." This medley is 72 measures and is set in Bb Major and G Major.
This Level 1 minuet for a flexible number of ringers from 4 through 7 is very nice on handchimes. Four ringers need D5-D6. There are several options for adding additional ringers, especially if A6 is available; A6 is required for use with seven ringers. The A section of this short composition uses LV. Dancing Angels can be used as an alternate title.
This level 1, two octave original composition works equally well for handbells or handchimes. In ABA form the first melody uses rhythmic echoes to engage all the ringers. An exposed melodic line over an accompaniment of dotted half notes highlights the B section. This easy but appealing piece made a big hit with the choir for which it was written. Set in G Major, it is 48 measures.
This Level 2 collection for 6 ringers, suitable for handbells or handchimes, is appropriate for almost any time of the year. An arrangement of the Beethoven melody Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee communicates the theme of joyful bells. Although "Interlude for Bells" has a slower tempo, it is still a happy tune; the B theme uses thumb damps. The collection concludes with "Allegro", another original composition for six ringers; it has one page turn.
"Lament", a Level 1 original composition for a two octave choir, is most effective with both handbells and handchimes. The G4/A4 position has a couple of quick changes between bells and chimes; F6 has two bell changes. Although suitable for general use, this piece in G-minor would be especially appropriate for Lent or a funeral. It is 42 measures.
"Effervescence" contains four short, bubbly, Level 2 pieces for 4 ringers. The main theme of "Exaltation" has the melody in the lower range. There are many dynamic contrasts in "Glad Day". "Golden Moments" uses LV plus a wide range of dynamics. "Hebrew Dance" has a distinctive modal flavor. No titles in the collection have page turns; only "Golden Moments" has bell changes for all ringers.
Here is a Level 1 collection for a flexible number of ringers. Scored for 3, 4, 5, or 6 ringers using a 2-octave instrument, these three pieces would be useful when the number of ringers fluctuates. The collection includes Bavarian Chimes, Dance of Life and Pleasant Valley, all of which are suitable for handbells or handchimes.
This Level 1 collection for 4 ringers (D5–D6) provides performance material for relatively inexperienced ringers. The easy rhythms and rhythmic texture of The Faithful Shepherd provide security in numbers. Cornerstone is in 3/4 meter and is mostly rhythmic with an exposed melody over dotted half notes in the middle section. Midnight Riders and A Walk through the Park have several measures of rhythmic independence. Two of the selections offer alternate titles for use at Christmas.
The titles of the individual pieces in this Level 1 collection for 5 ringers evoke pictures of several beauties in our natural surroundings. Dewy Sunrise, Blue Skies, Wallflower Waltz and The Sacred Grove are scored for C5/E5 plus F5–F6. The Sacred Grove will help ringers develop precision in ringing quarter note chords and dynamic changes that encompass several measures. Alternate suggestions are included for the two quick bell changes in The Sacred Grove.
This short Level 1 collection gives a director several options for a small group of relatively new ringers. Playable by 3, 4, 5, or 6 ringers Serene Hymn and Spirit Dance use a combination of homorhythmic sections and a few passages of easy contrasting rhythms. Both compositions are effective on chimes
This Level 2 collection of three patriotic titles includes "The Star-Spangled Banner", "America", and the trio section of "The Stars and Stripes Forever". Although it requires the full range of a 2-octave set of bells, it is playable by 6 ringers. The straightforward arrangement of the national anthem in the key of C is suitable for an opener but too high to be comfortable as a sing-a-long. America works for 5, 6, 7 or 8 ringers. The famous Sousa march is sure to be a winner! There are no page turns within any individual title.
This Level 2 & 3- collection of original compositions for four ringers (D5–D6) includes a variety of moods. #1-Allegro Marziale has a ceremonial feel with an interesting middle section in a minor key. Three of the ringers have quick bell changes. In the key of G-minor #2-Sarabande is quieter and more reflective; E5 and F5 have bell changes. The lively tempo of #3-The Chase, scored in 3/8 meter, provides an upbeat mood.
Forest Dance is an easy Level 1 piece in 3/4 meter for five ringers; the exposed monophonic line in the middle will challenge new ringers to have the courage to ring when their bell is the only one sounding. There are a few LV’s plus one easy bell change for D5. 80 measures. Key of G Major.
The Level 1 melody on bells (D6–G6) stands out over an accompaniment of eighth note arpeggios on chimes. There are no bell changes. Although this composition can be performed with only one tone color, it is more effective with both bells and chimes. 56 measures. Key of G Major.
There are no bell changes in this Level 1 collection for 3 ringers (F5–D6). Although all four titles use easy rhythms, each one starts with a pickup note. Two of the titles require close attention to changes in dynamics. All four titles are suitable for bells or chimes but #2-Threnody is nice on chimes. #3-Upward and Onward ends with three marts. #4-A Sad Tale has many dynamic changes.
The Level 1+ melody is suitable for bells or chimes. The rhythms are easy and the few bell changes are not difficult. The one pair of 8th notes is easy. The top note is always the melodic note. Although it is suitable for any season, it might be especially fitting for spring.
The Level 1 melody is suitable for bells or chimes. The rhythms are easy and there are no bell changes or bell techniques. The top note is always the melodic note. Although it is suitable for any season, it might be especially fitting for spring. 52 measures. Key of G major.
"Wide Missouri" is a Level 1 composition scored for 2 or 3 octaves of handbells or handchimes. There are no bell changes or special techniques. As an aid to ringers and directors, the melody and other notes of equal importance are easy to identify because they are printed in red. For use in schools this title could be coordinated with Geography or with the Lewis and Clark expedition. Some churches might relate the title of this big river to a theme of God’s work in nature. 40 measures. Key of C Major.
This level 4 piece will challenge ringers with frequent changes between bells and chimes and with various stopped-sound techniques. The suspended mallets cause the upper bells to sparkle as the melody below is rung on chimes in this lively and unique arrangement.
This glowing, easily accessible level 2 arrangement from Linda R. Lamb embraces two traditional English tunes; Royal Oak ("All Things Bright and Beautiful") and Terra Beata ("This is My Father's World"). It is fitting for worship, festivals, and all special occasions. A compatible 3, 4, or 5 octave version is also available, G 7914. 57 measures in length, it is scored in F Major.
This glowing, easily accessible level 2 arrangement from Linda R. Lamb embraces two traditional English tunes; Royal Oak ("All Things Bright and Beautiful") and Terra Beata ("This is My Father's World"). It is fitting for worship, festivals, and all special occasions. A compatible 2,3 octave version is also available, G 7889. 57 measures in length, it is scored in F Major.
This gentle, easily accessible level 1+ arrangement from Shawn Gingrich warmly embraces the 9th century tune, "Conditor Alme Siderum." It is fitting for either handbells or handchimes. The liberal use of LVs facilitate a chant-like sound and style. 45 measures in length, it is scored in Eb Major.
The difficulty level for this arrangement is 1+ making it an excellent choice for youth or developing ensembles. It’s also a great selection for Christ the King Sunday. Arranger Sandra Eithun adds interest by employing the optional use of Thumb Damps or Mallets. 60 measures. Key of F Major.
This lower-level medley will be a great way to use your beginning choir during the Lenten season. The minimal bell changes and easy tempos allow the choir the time to focus on musical expression of the final, haunting tune. 60 measures. Keys of e minor and G Major.
This level 4 arrangement of BEACH SPRING is fun to perform and will charm the listener with its creative drive and inspiring sound. The tranquil middle section with optional handchimes offers a satisfying contrast to the energetic beginning and ending. 90 measures. Key of G Major.
Everyone's "favorite" hymn is set for level two ringers wanting a big sound. Full texture is used, and a consistent rhythmic pattern of quarter-note,half-note accompanies the melody. The back page shows the bells assignment for 3-4 octaves of bells or chimes and an exercise to prepare the ringers for the rhythms in the piece. Other performance notes are given. This arrangement is in F Major and is 40 measures with a coda.
The lovely Irish melody is made accessible to level 2 repertoire. The final six measures include accidentals, but are optional. There are eighth-note rhythms in both versions. Consider using chimes or a combination of bells and chimes for variety. DeWitt's arrangement of the lovely tune is set in C Major and is 56 measures.
This flexible and solid level 1 arrangement is playable by 2, 3, 4 or 5 octave handbell or handchime groups, making it an excellent choice for festivals and for choirs ringing with some absentees. The stately hymntune, DUKE STREET, is set to several different sets of lyrics in different hymnals, and will be useful throughout most of the church year. The piece is enhanced by a variety of techniques, which can easily be adapted for handchimes.
Varying in mood and ranging in difficulty from level 1 to 2, this collection of favorite hymns set for 12 bells and optional keyboard will become a “go-to” resource that your small or shorthanded ensemble can turn to time and again. Requiring short amounts of rehearsal and fewer ringers, this collection features arrangements within the F5 – C7 range and in a variety of keys. The optional keyboard part offers a fullness to the settings when ringers are limited. Tune sources: BUNESSAN, DARWALL, KELVINGROVE, LONESOME VALLEY, PUER NOBIS NASCITUR, TRENTHAM Contents: Breathe on Me, Breath of God; Jesus Walked this Lonesome Valley; Morning Has Broken; Prelude on Kelvingrove; Rejoice the Lord Is King; That Easter Day with Joy Was Bright;
Level 2+ • This straight-forward arrangement of the popular Christmas carol is full of dynamic contrast from the delicate opening and closing phrases to joyous and full chordal passages. There are no special techniques, and bell changes are kept to a minimum. A unique closing chord creates a bit of freshness in this timeless carol. All three editions are compatible for massed ringing.
Level 2+ • This straight-forward arrangement of the popular Christmas carol is full of dynamic contrast from the delicate opening and closing phrases to joyous and full chordal passages. There are no special techniques, and bell changes are kept to a minimum. A unique closing chord creates a bit of freshness in this timeless carol. All three editions are compatible for massed ringing.
Level 2+ • This straight-forward arrangement of the popular Christmas carol is full of dynamic contrast from the delicate opening and closing phrases to joyous and full chordal passages. There are no special techniques, and bell changes are kept to a minimum. A unique closing chord creates a bit of freshness in this timeless carol. All three editions are compatible for massed ringing.
3 octaves - optional handchimes (2 oct) General Level 2The traditional American tune, RESIGNATION, is given a fresh and rich harmonic treatment, with handchimes lending warm contrast.
Level 2 • This gentle arrangement of the beloved carol is set in a sweeping and flowing style with a lush accompaniment. The expressive. fluid music utilizes LV and echo techniques. The two editions are fully compatible for massed ringing events. 2-3 octaves CGB 199
Level 2 • Now available in two fully compatible editions, this exciting and popular original piece is ideal for worship, concerts, and festivals. Immediately engaging, both youth and adult choirs will enjoy the various ringing techniques and the memorable melodies. Rung with a lilt and at a tempo of up to quarter note equals 132, the style remains light and bouncy throughout. 3-5 octaves CGB 667
Level 2 • Now available in two fully compatible editions, this exciting and popular original piece is ideal for worship, concerts, and festivals. Immediately engaging, both youth and adult choirs will enjoy the various ringing techniques and the memorable melodies. Rung with a lilt and at a tempo of up to quarter note equals 132, the style remains light and bouncy throughout. 2-3 octaves CGB 208
Level 2 • Simply and delicately, this arrangement of the traditional German carol paints a picture of softly falling snow on a quiet Christmas night. Directors may chose to play desired sections or the entire piece using handchimes, as LV is the only special technique used. An edition for two or three octaves is also available, and the two versions are compatible for massed ringing. 2-3 octaves CGB 210