News & Views Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Handbell Music for Fall and Christmas 2016 Thursday, October 06, 2016

recommended by Jennifer F., Handbell Music Specialist

FOR GENERAL WORSHIP
In Christ There Is No East or West arr. Anna Laura Page
A jubilant arrangement combining two different hymn tunes that are associated with the familiar hymn text. This setting is appropriate for general worship as well as special occasions, and it promises to keep all ringers busy with fun rhythms and articulations throughout. Published in compatible editions for 2-3 and 3-5 octaves.

Now Thank We All Our God arr. Lloyd Larson
This festive presentation for handbells and piano sets a joyous mood with a flourishing keyboard pattern at the start and then builds dynamically as it progresses. The Level 2 bell part is very accessible and the piano solo shines with color and interest – ideal for worship or concert.

Simple Gifts arr. Lloyd Larson
Simple and heartfelt describe Lloyd Larson’s arrangement of this tune. With few accidentals and one easily-managed key change, most ensembles will have little trouble putting this piece together technically, allowing them to focus on musicality and expression. A lovely choice for worship throughout the year.

Raise the Songs of Harvest arr. Lloyd Larson
Bold chords give way to ST. GEORGE’S WINDSOR (Come, Ye Thankful People, Come) to open this medley of Thanksgiving tunes. A softer middle section utilizing the tune KREMSER (We Gather Together) gives all ranges a chance to showcase the melody. A final verse, using NUN DANKET (Now Thank We All Our God) returns to the same triumphant feel of the opening. A rousing choice for a Thanksgiving service.

Crown Him Lord of All arr. Derek Hakes
Celebrating the coronation of our Savior and King, here is an easy, straightforward setting of two familiar hymn tunes. With no bell changes, but plenty of techniques, this arrangement will keep ringers busy while sounding more challenging than it actually is.

Ring to the Lord a New Song by Cathy Moklebust
This jubilant original composition will delight worshippers and concert-goers with its cheerful melody and spirited pace. The melody moves from major to minor, bass and treble, then concludes with a fiery return to the major key and an energetic, powerful ending. Compatible editions for 2 or 3, or 4, 5, or 6 octaves make this piece a perfect choice for handbell festivals. With this work, Cathy honors her childhood handbell director and mentor, Barbara Berntson.

FOR ADVENT & CHRISTMAS
Come and Adore
This charming reproducible collection features easy Advent and Christmas arrangements playable on either handbells or handchimes. “Come and Adore” will be a wonderful resource for developing choirs, as well as for more experienced groups needing music they can learn quickly. Published in compatible editions for 2-3 and 3-5 octaves, these favorites from the Choristers Guild catalog are compiled for the first time in a budget-stretching, reproducible format.

Christmas Angels arr. Brian Tervo
The Christmas angels announce the joy of Christ’s birth in this medley of beloved carols! This piece will make a bold statement at your Christmas services and can be mastered in a minimal amount of rehearsals.

Glory to the Newborn King arr. Dan Edwards
The perfect opener for any Christmas service or concert, this energetic arrangement of “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” comes to us from the creative mind of Dan Edwards. The melody – written in 3/4 time – and a moving eighth-note accompaniment adds to the excitement. The piece also features many handbell techniques, including malleting, shakes, martellatos, and tower swings.

Brightest and Best arr. Terry Osman
With minimal bell changes, Terry Osman’s beautiful setting will make a striking addition to your Epiphany service. The middle section of the arrangement offers a flowing eighth note accompaniment that is a wonderful learning tool for developing ensembles.

Deck the Halls arr. Benjamin Tucker
A real celebration of the season, Ben’s energetic setting of the classic carol “Deck the Halls” is rhythmic and fun, and contains a contrasting section in waltz tempo. Unforgettable!

What Child Is This arr. Brenda Austin
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.

For more great handbell recommendations, contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!

About the Author:
Jennifer F. is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s for over 14 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is a soprano section leader in the Chancel Choir at First Community Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.


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