NEW for Handbells Fall 2020 Friday, October 02, 2020
recommended by Jennifer F., Handbell Music Specialist
for 2-3 Octaves
Bright and Glorious Is the Sky arr. Patricia Hurlbutt, 2-3 octaves, Level 2
This delicate and joyful setting of a well-known Danish tune is musically satisfying for ringer and listener alike. Numerous techniques abound, and several key changes will keep ringers on their toes. A fun choice for the ensemble looking for something a little different.
Essential Classics for 2-3 Octaves Volume 2 2-3 octaves, Level 2+
This 60-page collection includes 14 of our best-selling arrangements of recent years, all for 2-3 octaves, Level 2+. These solid, traditional settings come from an array of composers and arrangers, represent a wide range of styles, and are useful throughout the church year. Single copies of these 14 titles exceed the cost of this one book, which you can then reproduce for all your ringers!
Holy Manna arr. Patricia Hurlbutt, 2-3 octaves, Level 2
Every ensemble, no matter its size, occasionally needs a well-crafted 2-3 octave piece. Patricia Hurlbutt’s “Holy Manna” is imaginative yet easy to put together, with imitative writing and full harmonies. This popular tune, used with many texts, is suitable for occasions year-round.
In the Bleak Midwinter arr. Linda Scholes, 2-3 octaves, Level 2-
Linda Scholes’ approachable yet moving arrangement of the tune CRANHAM will provide a prayerful moment in your holiday worship or concert. Gentle echoes and careful scoring provide for a peaceful feeling. The melody moves between all parts of the ensemble, giving all ringers the chance to shine. The piece gradually fades away for a gentle and satisfying conclusion.
A Quiet Christmas Eve arr. Jason W. Krug, 2-3 octaves, Level 1
This set of two Level 1 arrangements is a perfect choice for a youth or beginning choir, or for a more advanced ensemble down a few ringers. Available in both 2-3 and 3-5 octave compatible editions, these settings of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” and “Silent Night” are simple, yet harmonically rich and complex despite having no bell changes. Perfect for a Christmas Eve service, or any time during Advent.
Ringing with Keys Volume 1 arr. Lloyd Larson, 2 octaves with piano, Level 2
Introducing this new series, geared at smaller ensembles. Each arrangement can be performed with 1.5-2 octaves of handbells. The piano accompaniment fills out the harmonies, keeping the handbell parts accessible while adding beautiful texture and color to the arrangements.
The Snow Lay on the Ground arr. Linda Scholes, 2-3 octaves, Level 1+
Picture dancing snowflakes falling gracefully to the ground in this delightful arrangement of the familiar English carol. Suitable for beginning choirs, this Level 1+ piece for 2-3 octaves, is also challenging enough for intermediate groups to enjoy.
Three for Christmas arr. Patricia Hurlbutt, 2-3 octaves, Level 2
This set of three solid arrangements will provide smaller ensembles with a wealth of music for the Advent and Christmas season. Including the tunes “Coventry Carol,” “I Am So Glad on Christmas Eve,” and “O Come, Little Children,” these selections are easily accessible, yet highly musical. This collection is the perfect choice for the smaller church ensemble, or the larger ensemble that knows its numbers will be diminished during the holiday season.
for 3-5 Octaves
Angels We Have Heard on High arr. Fred Gramann, 3-5 octaves, Level 2-
This charming arrangement of the beloved classic is sure to be a favorite with ringers and congregations. The running eighth notes bring excitement, yet keep the arrangement accessible.
Called Home to Heaven arr. Fred Gramann, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
HOLY MANNA is masterfully woven through this arrangement creating an enchanting setting of the traditional tune. The fugue-like second verse is beautifully created.
Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel? arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
This classic spiritual is infused with energy from the first note. The malleted bass line ties the arrangement together and gives it an infectious spirit that is sure to energize ringers and listeners alike.
Gesu Bambino arr. Sondra Tucker, 3-5 octaves, Level 3
Pietro Yon’s classic Christmas song gets a lush treatment from Sondra Tucker. Beginning quietly, it swells to a full exclamation of joy before ending as quietly as it begins.
Give Me Jesus arr. Linda Lamb, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
Linda’s sensitive portrayal of the text of this beloved spiritual creates a compelling musical experience. Her writing is accessible yet moving in this arrangement which is useful throughout the church year.
Hymns & Handbells: Easy Accompaniments arr. Joel Raney & Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
These 40 easy hymn accompaniments are designed to enhance and heighten the power of hymn singing in worship by adding the brilliance of handbells. Each of the hymns are arranged in two settings to be played with the organist or pianist, and are compatible with most hymnals. Setting one encompasses the full 3-5 octaves with chordal accompaniment, while the second version is for treble clef only in a descant/ostinato style, played in octaves. With “easy-to-learn” as their top priority, these are all Level 2, and many of them can be played without a bell table. The tunes pair with popular seasonal titles and general hymns that you will be sure to sing throughout the church year.
On Eagle’s Wings arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
This enticing setting of the beloved tune pairs Level 2 handbells and piano with optional handchimes. Lovely and accessible, this is sure to be a favorite!
On This Day Earth Shall Ring arr. Ron Mallory, 3-5 octaves, Level 3
Beginning with singing bells coupled with chimes and bells, this stunning setting of the ancient Christmas song bursts out into a rhythmic, dancelike explosion! The optional percussion part includes wind chimes, triangle, hand drum and suspended cymbal to create an aura of excitement and anticipation.
Rondo Jubilee by Brenda E. Austin, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
This exciting original composition is an ideal worship, concert or festival opener. Filled with techniques and unique harmonies, the notes burst off the page!
Sanctuary (with God’s Holy Temple) arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 3-
This Quick Study Choral on John Thompson and Randy Scruggs’ popular praise chorus is paired with original words and music by Lloyd Larson. The prayerful message calls for each worshiper to come before God in devotion and thanksgiving.
Shall We Gather at the River arr. Karen Lakey Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
Lush harmonies and delicate scoring abound in this beautiful arrangement by Karen Lakey Buckwalter. Flowing accompaniment underscores the beloved melody before a key change gives way to an equally-delicate setting of “There Is a Balm in Gilead,” before returning to the feeling of the opening, but with a more chromatic and unexpected harmonization. A beautiful choice for worship or concert.
The Shepherd’s Farewell arr. Sandra Winter, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
Sandra Winter’s arrangement of this well-known song from Berlioz’s oratorio L’enfance du Christ will add a touch of something different and special to your holiday service or concert. While the rhythms are not demanding, the frequent chromatic notes will provide a small element of challenge and keep your ringers on their toes. Focus on musicality will be key, but well worth the effort!
Thanksgiving Medley arr. Patricia Hurlbutt, 3-5 octaves, Level 2-
Patricia Hurlbutt’s medley of three well-known Thanksgiving hymns is a glorious addition to any worship service offering thanks. Combining the hymns “Now Thank We All Our God,” “We Come as Guests Invited,” and “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come,” the piece moves from prayerful contemplation to bold rejoicing as it explores all the facets of thanksgiving. With lush scoring and harmonies, this selection will give ringers of all skill levels a chance to shine!
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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.