Near to the Heart of God: Handbell Titles for General Worship Friday, February 02, 2024
recommended by Jennifer F., Handbell Music Specialist
Near to the Heart of God arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves handbells, Level 2
This classic hymn is masterfully arranged utilizing creative harmonization and varied placement of the melody.
Day by Day God’s Time Is Best arr. Karen Lakey Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves handbells, Level 3-
This heartfelt setting by Karen Buckwalter, written in memory of a treasured member of the handbell community, is perfect for any service of remembrance or other reflective setting. Combining a cantata tune from Bach with the hymn “Day by Day,” it is a beautiful memorial perfect for intermediate groups.
Joyeuse by Karen Lakey Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves handbells, Level 3-
This upbeat original tune from Karen Buckwalter is perfect for any celebratory moment in worship or concert, and would even make a nice alternative piece for Easter. Repeated rhythmic motives make this piece easy to learn, even as the shifting harmonies keep ringers on their toes!
A Blessing by Michael Helman, 3-5 octaves handbells and optional handchimes, Level 2+
Written in honor of his grandsons, this delicate original from Michael Helman is perfect for the intermediate choir looking to focus on their musicality. Flowing accompaniment lines and a heartfelt melody combine to make this a truly gorgeous experience.
Come, Christians, Join to Sing! arr. Sondra Tucker, 3-5 octaves handbells and optional handchimes, Level 3
The cleverly offset harmonic changes in Sondra Tucker’s arrangement propel the piece forward and create a playful vibe which makes this piece a pleasure to ring and to hear.
Ring with Less arr. Martha Lynn Thompson, 13-16 bells (4-8 ringers)
A reproducible collection of eight pieces for 4-8 ringers without tables, using 13-16 bells between D5 and C7. Each setting is only two pages long. Titles include: “Come, Let Us Anew Our Journey Pursue,” “Havah Nagila,” “He Is Born, the Divine Christ Child,” “The Holly and the Ivy,” “Holy, Holy, Holy (Schubert),” “Holy Manna,” “Still, Still, Still,” and “To God Be the Glory.”
All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves handbells with piano, Level 2
The classic and beloved hymn is set here for 3-5 octave handbells and piano. The handbell part is accessible at Level 2, and the harmonies are expanded and filled with a rich and delightful piano accompaniment.
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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 20 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 and rings with the First Church Ringers at First Congregational Church in Columbus Ohio. When not singing or ringing, Jennifer can be found doing conformation and other competitive sports with her three standard long haired dachshunds, Fanny, Frenchie, and Lukas.