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Jingle Bells

James Murray wrote Jingle Bells in 1857. We understand that it actually was a Thanksgiving song for a children’s play at his church… but history has made it into a Christmas song. That probably makes sense since December is snowier than November in most areas (well… if you’re far north enough).

Dashing through the snow in a one horse open sleigh
O’er the fields we go laughing all the way
Bells on bob tails ring making spirits bright
What fun it is to laugh and sing a sleighing song tonight!

Oh, jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh
Jingle bells, jingle bells jingle all the way
Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh!

A day or two ago I thought I’d take a ride
And soon Miss Fanny Bright was seated by my side
The horse was lean and lank misfortune seemed his lot
We got into a drifted bank and then we got upsot!

Church Calendar: Thanksgiving, Christmas

Standard Version:
”Dual-Range”™ Score Package: $7.00 US
G5-based practice track: $2.00 US
F5-based practice track: $2.00 US

“Surprisingly Easy”™ Version:
”Dual-Range”™ Score Package: $5.00 US
G5-based practice track: $2.00 US
F5-based practice track: $2.00 US


This arrangement is also included in Larry and Carla’s Third “Surprisingly Easy”™ Eight-Bell Christmas Collection.

Other arrangements available for eight handbells.

Purchasing this 8-bell arrangement gives you permission to print and maintain up to four copies for your handbell group (plus the accompaniment score, if part of the purchase) – so you only need to pay once. Purchase also gives permission for performance, broadcasting, live-streaming and video-sharing online. See our licensing agreement for full details, and please remember to mention the title and arranger of the piece on video-sharing sites, social media and any printed materials such as concert programs.

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