Handbell Music for General Worship Spring 2018 Wednesday, February 28, 2018
recommended by Jennifer F., Handbell Music Specialist
Flee As a Bird arr. Anna Laura Page, Level 3-
Anna Laura Page’s arrangement of “Flee As a Bird” is both lyrical and yearning. Flowing eighth notes accompany the simple melody, which grows in intensity and strength through to a final climax before dying away to a gentle finish. A perfect choice for a reflective moment in concert or worship.
Abide with Me arr. Michael Helman, Level 2+
This quiet and meditative arrangement of “Abide with Me” is perfect for dedication and Communion services. The expressive piece will help your congregation to meditate on the assurance of God in their lives and the comfort that the Holy Spirit can give.
A Heavenly Hymn Ring arr. Tammy Waldrop, Level 3
Following on the heels of Tammy’s successful A Gospel Hymn Ring, she has created another sparkling gospel medley. Malleted accompaniments lend energy to this upbeat composition.
Voluntary on ABERYSTWYTH arr. Terry Osman, Level 2
With a variety of associated texts, the Welsh tune ABERYSTWYTH can be used at various times of the church year, and Terry Osman’s wonderful arrangement will be your go-to edition. All ringers share in the melodic material, and the eighth-note accompaniment patterns will keep your ringers engaged.
Two Worship Songs arr. Linda Scholes, Level 2
Linda Scholes arranged two contemporary Christian songs for small choirs: “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” and “Come, People of the Risen King.” Both arrangements give your ringers opportunity to work on various handbell techniques, including echo, malleting, thumb damps, and martellato. These two selections will become favorites of your congregation and enhance any worship or concert experience.
God of Our Fathers arr. Bill Ingram, Level 2
A stirring setting of “National Hymn” is enhanced by the optional trumpet duet, and is appropriate for special observances as well as general worship.
Reproducible Rings IV arr. Lloyd Larson, Level 2
Arranged with the volunteer handbell ringer in mind, these nine hymn settings are quickly learned and ready to perform with limited preparation time. Engaging settings of familiar carols and hymn tunes guarantee broad appeal to both ringers and listeners. Another cost saving “Reproducible” collection from Agape, buy one book and copy all the music for use by your choir.
I Need Thee Every Hour arr. Patricia Hurlbutt, Level 2+
This easily-accessible arrangement of the well-loved hymn tune provides a great opportunity for intermediate ensembles to work on their musicality. The slower tempo allows ample time for ringers to perform the necessary bell changes, and the dynamic contrasts throughout give them the chance to work on their expressiveness. A beautiful choice for any worship service.
The Best of Agape for 2-3 Octaves, Volume 1
Here are eleven of our best-selling contemporary arrangements of recent years, all for 3-5 octave choirs. There are seven Level 2s and one each for Level 2-, 2+, 3- and 3. Eleven great pieces for the cost of 3 makes this a real budget stretcher!
For more great 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.