Handbell Music Review

Volume 17

by Camille Ream

Handbells Etc.

Edmonton, Alberta

 

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In the Bleak Midwinter - Arr. Geschke 345 octaves opt 3-4 octaves Choirchimes® Level 2

 

This is one of my favorite Christmas hymns and this looks like a terrific arrangement. Rated as a Level 2, it will sound much more like a Level 3. The entire middle passage can be rung with Choirchimes® which really will add to the tranquility and peacefulness of the music.

 

Gesu Bambino (The Infant Jesus) - Arr. Elery Rogers 345 octaves opt 3 octaves Choirchimes® Level 3

 

This beautiful music by Pietor A. Yon is a piece that is timeless. The melody of Gesu Bambino is combined with O Come All Ye Faithful. This arrangement should become a standard in your Christmas program.

 

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks - Arr. Dobrinski 3456 octaves opt 3 or 5 octaves Choirchimes® Level 3

 

This has the theme of While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks with a number of fantastic variations. In the traditional Dobrinski style, each variation has different technique, different key, or different tempo. A great crowd pleaser!

 

Angel's Carol - Arr. Tucker 345 octaves Level 3+

 

This arrangement is based on John Rutter's Christmas Choral anthem that has been transcribed for handbells. This has a wonderful melody that would be a great addition to your Christmas program.

 

Carol of the Bells - Arr. Sherman 345 octaves opt SATB Level 3

 

This arrangement can stand alone as an anthem or can be combined with a SATB choir. It, of course, goes REALLY FAST with the quarter note at 160 per minute. Play it up to speed, add a great choir, and smile - you will have a very exciting performance.

 

Ring With 6 for Christmas - Arr. Thompson C5 to A6

 

Similar to the Twelve Bell series by Cota, this music can used when you are short ringers. No tables or foam are needed. Pieces include Frosty the Snowman, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Up On the Housetop, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and the Little Drummer Boy. It is great to have some secular arrangements for Christmas.

 

He Leadeth Me - Arr. Sherman 3456 octaves opt 345 Choirchimes® Level 3-

 

This traditional hymn, written by Bradbury, is combined with Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us. The beautiful melody, flowing accompaniment and the addition of the bass ChoirchimesR give us meditative arrangement that can fit anywhere in your church service.

 

Plink, Plank, Plunk - Arr. Thompson 345 octaves Level 3

 

And now for something completely different! This piece, written by Leroy Anderson has great opportunities for speed and excitement. Audiences will definitely smile as they listen and watch your choirs. In cut time, metronome marking is 144-152 beats per minute for the half note. Have fun with this!