Handbell Music for Fall and Christmas 2015 Wednesday, October 14, 2015
by Jennifer Fry, Handbell Specialist
FOR GENERAL WORSHIP
Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart ar
r. Margaret R. Tucker
After a short, fanfare introduction, “Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart” presents the hymn tune MARION in three settings: 1. traditional 4/4 hymn form, 2. a more meditative setting in 3/4 time, with the melody in mid range, played by optional handchimes, and 3. a stately setting in 4/4 time with a flowing bass bells accompaniment. The first setting of the hymn tune could also be used, with or without treble instrument, to accompany congregational singing of this hymn. The two editions are written so they may be played together in festivals and other multiple bell choir situations.
Ring Out for Fall ed. Michael Helman
This outstanding collection offers spectacular seasonal selections that teach many handbell techniques, including LV, martellato, martellato lifts, shakes, and echo, as well as instructions for handchime choir adaptation. Your beginning ensemble will appreciate and enjoy this resource year-round!
Father Most Holy arr
. Terry Osman
Terry Osman composed this fabulous arrangement of the well-known tune that will bring to mind each of the many texts with which the tune is often associated. Flowing neatly through the ensemble, this piece can be learned by young ringers in only a few rehearsals.
My Faith Looks Up to Thee arr. Michael R. Keller
From peaceful beginnings, this arrangement of the tune OLIVET gains strength and energy through a lightly-arpeggiated middle verse and on into a glorious whirlwind of a final verse. With minimal bell changes, ringers can focus on their musicality, which will be challenged with contrasting styles and moods. An excellent choice for use throughout the church year, by ensembles of almost any level.
I Love Thee arr. Tammy Waldrop
Captivate your audience with Tammy Waldrop’s stunning arrangement of the beloved tune. Full of devotion, this selection is easy to prepare due to bell changes only occurring at the key change.
Be Still, My Soul arr. Lloyd Larson
This graceful arrangement of two well-known hymns will find a place in church services and concerts throughout the year. A fanfare-like opening leads into a grand statement of the FINLANDIA tune, which gives way to a thin and delicate verse of “It Is Well with My Soul” before returning for a triumphant chordal ending with the original tune. The optional cello provides a beautiful contrasting sonority to the bells.
FOR ADVENT & CHRISTMAS
Angel Medley arr. 
Terry Osman
Terry Osman weaves together three favorite Christmas tunes: “Angels from the Realms of Glory,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” in this charming arrangement. It is perfect for any occasion during the Christmas season.
I Wonder as I Wander arr. Peggy Bettcher
The ethereal sound of singing bells opens this 3-5 octave arrangement which combines two haunting Christmas melodies, the Appalachian folk tune “I Wonder as I Wander” and “Coventry Carol.” These two carols are artistically woven together to create a beautiful, contemplative composition, making this a poignant addition to any Christmas service or program.
Now Proclaim Messiah’s Birth arr. Linda R. Lamb
This joyful arrangement of the tune REGENT SQUARE will be a welcome addition to your Christmas repertoire. A rhythmic, malleted opening verse gives way to a gentler, almost fantasia-like verse in 3/4 time, before returning once more to the familiar 4/4 time. A snippet of “Angels We Have Heard on High” provides a moment of melodic contrast before the triumphant finish. A fun piece both to ring and hear!
Masters in This Hall arr. Jason W. Krug
Immense energy and a quick tempo ensure that this delightful piece will be a memorable addition to your holiday performances. A great selection for beginning ringers, it is free of bell changes and includes opportunities to use thumb damp techniques.
Shepherds Jubilee arr. Michael Helman
From the collection “Let Our Carols Fill the Sky” (20/1588L), this creative medley incorporates four traditional carols and is perfect for use throughout the holiday season. Various stopped techniques, as well as the optional chimes add variety for the listener and ringing enjoyment for your choir.
Puer Nobis a
rr. Patricia Hurlbutt
Patricia Hurlbutt’s arrangement of the tune PUER NOBIS is a light, playful selection sure to entrance ringers and audiences alike. With no bell changes and limited techniques, most ensembles can prepare this piece with minimal rehearsal time. Suggested hymn titles for the piece allow it to be played for Easter, Christmas, or at any point throughout the church year.
For more great recommendations, contact us at 1.800.426.8742. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Author:
Jennifer Fry is a graduate of Otterbein College with a degree in Vocal Performance. She has worked at Stanton’s since 2001 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.
