Blessed By the Spirit: Handbell Titles for General Worship Wednesday, October 08, 2025
recommended by Jennifer F., Handbell Music Specialist
Blessed by the Spirit arr. Karen Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes, Level 2+
This lush, flowing medley of two gorgeous hymntunes provides a moment of calm assurance. Intricate harmonies abound, and the addition of melody lines on handchimes enhances the beauty of this setting.
All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name arr. Sandra Eithun, 3-6 octaves, Level 2+
Suitable for Easter, Christ the King, or general worship, this setting is a solid piece of handbell literature that will make your ensemble shine. The use of LV against thick chords conveys the strength of the hymn.
Bell Peal on Lasst uns Erfreuen arr. Sondra K. Tucker, 2-5 octaves with handchimes, Level 3
A strong and accessible setting of the beloved hymn. The wide range makes it a superb selection for festivals.
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves with piano, Level 2+
Using imagery of Christ as the giver of living water and the shepherd gathering his sheep back into the fold, this hymn reminds us of the ever-bountiful grace of God. This accessible, Level 2 setting for bells and piano captures the hymn’s devotional and uplifting spirit, making it suitable for worship services, concerts, and special events.
It Is Well with My Soul arr. Karen Buckwalter, 3-5 octaves with optional piano, Level 2+
Enveloping listeners in an atmosphere of peace and serenity, this setting captures the essence of the beloved hymn’s message of faith and resilience. While it can be performed with handbells only, the piano accompaniment fills in harmonies and adds rhythmic interest, deepening the emotional resonance of the piece.
Faithfulness arr. Bradley Anderson, 3-6 octaves with piano, Level 2+
This beloved hymn is celebrated for its powerful message of God’s unwavering faithfulness. Combining the resonant tones of handbells with the rich harmonies of the piano, you’ll find this beautiful setting perfect for worship services, concerts, and special events.
The King of Love My Shepherd Is arr. Jantz A. Black, 3-5 octaves, Level 2
Simplistic beauty is the best way to describe this lovely arrangement. Accessible at Level 2, ringers and listeners will be enchanted by its charming beauty.
Marching to Zion arr. Jason Krug, 3-6 octaves, Level 3
This light, playful setting of the beloved hymn features pulsing rhythms and unexpected harmonies, bringing a fresh take on a traditional hymn. The melody moves throughout the ensemble, giving all parts a chance to shine.
Praise the Lord Who Reigns Above arr. Anna Laura Page, 3-5 octaves, Level 3-
This setting of the hymntune AMSTERDAM has a marchlike feel, making this arrangement perfect for any upbeat or celebratory time in the life of the church. Numerous malleted sections appear, and a key change midway through adds an element of excitement to the piece.
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty arr. Sondra K. Tucker, 2-5 octaves, Level 2
Accessible to most groups, yet energetic and exciting, this setting of Lobe den Herren is written for two to five octave handbells, making it an excellent festival selection or worship selection for groups large or small.
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
This approachable setting of the hymntune LOBE DEN HERREN is perfect for use throughout the church year. The melody moves throughout the ensemble, giving all parts a chance to shine, and there are just enough harmonic twists to keep each verse fresh and exciting!
Rejoice the Lord Is King arr. Ron Mallory, 3-5 octaves, Level 3
This sparkling arrangement of Darwell’s 148th features Mallory’s trademark rhythmic accompaniment and uses stopped techniques to add interest and excitement right up to the end!
Rejoice, the Lord Is King arr. Linda Scholes, 3-6 octaves, Level 2+
This powerful setting of DARWALL’S 148TH is a perfect choice for the Easter season or any time something bold and celebratory is called for. Available in compatible 2-3 and 3-6 octave settings, its bold harmonies and driving rhythms are equally at home in church as in concert or festival settings.
Spirit of the Living God arr. Michael Helman, 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes, Level 2
This lush arrangement of the beloved hymn by Daniel Iverson is presented in compatible 2-3 and 3-5 octave versions. Flowing accompaniment lines underscore the simple, heartfelt melody, making this a perfect choice for use throughout the church year.
To God Be the Glory arr. Lloyd Larson, 3-5 octaves, Level 3
Lloyd Larson’s bold setting of this beloved favorite is sure to be a hit with your ringers and listeners alike. Fanfare-like figures open each verse, adding to the celebratory nature of the piece. Perfect for any joyous time throughout the year!
Gospel Roundup (Medley) arr. Joel Raney, 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes, Level 2+
This rollicking gospel medley includes, “Blessed Assurance,” “Since Jesus Came into My Heart,” “In My Heart There Rings a Melody,” and “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” capturing the joyful and uplifting spirit of these gospel favorites.
Total Praise arr. Joel Raney, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
This contemporary gospel song has become widely known for its simple message and powerful impact. Joel Raney pairs it with “Holy, Holy, Holy” and provides an accessible, Quick Study version maintaining all the gospel harmonies that make this a worship sensation.
Thanksgiving (Simple Gifts) arr. John Ness Beck/adapt. Arnold Sherman, 3-5 octaves, Level 2+
“For seedtime and harvest and the good will of men, We give thanks to God the Father once again…” so begins the text of the anthem by John Ness Beck based on an early American tune. It is this anthem that the corresponding bell folio is set to, albeit one whole-step lower. It may stand alone or accompany the vocal octavo.
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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 standard long haired dachshunds, Lukas and Thursday.