For Small Handbell Ensembles Tuesday, September 01, 2020
recommended by Jennifer F., Sacred Choral & Handbell Music Specialist
As you continue online worship this fall, or perhaps start returning in-person, we recommend these arrangements for smaller handbell ensembles to enhance your worship experiences, all for Level 1 and 2-3 octaves.
Shall We Gather at the River arr. Michael Helman, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
This hymn of quiet assurance is given a handsome treatment that is accessible and nicely expressive. Beginning choirs will have a chance to develop good legato ringing, and more mature choirs can explore its expressive qualities as an offertory or call to worship.
Praise to the Lord arr. Anna Laura Page, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
Majestic setting of LOBE DEN HERREN; articulations include the echo, martellato and martellato lift; opportunity of learning to listen for melody above accompaniment; appropriate for general worship and Young Ringer festivals.
Come, Thou Almighty King arr. Anna Laura Page, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
The classic hymn “Come, Thou Almighty King” has been given a highly accessible new setting by Anna Laura Page. It is based on the ITALIAN HYMN and is appropriate for general worship services and especially Trinity Sunday.
Amazing Grace arr. Michael Helman, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
Lovely setting of beloved hymn. Incorporates “Grace Greater than Our Sin.” Offers various articulations for the beginning ringer. Appropriate for worship services and special occasions.
Let All Things Now Living arr. Sandra Eithun, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
This simple setting of the classic hymn, also known as ASH GROVE, provides a charming addition to any worship service or school program. With notes a quarter note or larger, thumb damps and a few shakes near the end for interest, this arrangement still produces rich, full chords. Use this great teaching opportunity with your new or beginning ringers!
Sweet Hour of Prayer arr. Sandra Eithun, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
This gentle rendering of the beloved hymn requires no bell changes and may be rung entirely on handchimes if desired. The piece offers a wonderful opportunity for beginning and developing choirs to work on artistic expression and musical phrasing. Published in two compatible editions, this arrangement will be a great choice for festivals, as well as worship services and concerts.
Trust and Obey arr. Ron Mallory, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
Both treble and bass clef ringers get their turn at playing the melody in these vibrant Level 1 settings. The arrangement also includes creative reharmonization of the well-known hymn tune, yet there are no bell changes throughout. Both 2-3 octave and 3-5 octave editions are available, which are compatible for massed ringing.
My Friend Jesus arr. Tammy Waldrop, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
Tammy Waldrop provides us with this piece that incorporates “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”
How Great Thou Art arr. Michael Helman, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
A majestic arrangement of the beloved hymn for beginning ringers, “How Great Thou Art” incorporates “This Is My Father’s World.” This is an excellent choice for teaching precise ringing and damping techniques.
Oh, How I Love Jesus arr. Susan E. Geschke, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
Appropriate at any time of the year, this flowing setting of the popular American melody is very effective as a devotional prayer for worship and reflection.
I Surrender All arr. Sandra Eithun, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
Equally playable by bells or chimes, this is a good exercise for dynamic contrasts. For General Worship, a devotional for choir found in performance notes.
Come, Christians, Join to Sing arr. Anna Laura Page, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
An exciting arrangement of the Spanish hymn tune “Madrid.” Use of several articulations, appropriate for the beginning ringer. Opportunity for the ringer to develop skills in ringing different dynamics effectively. Appropriate for general worship services and Young Ringers festivals.
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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 15 years specializing in Sacred Choral, Classical Vocal and Handbell music. Jennifer is Director of Handbells at Worthington Presbyterian Church and sings in the First Church Choir at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio, and is also the founder, Artistic Director and bass bell ringer for Handbells Columbus.