We have one book in our e-store, the Bass Ringer’s Notebook. It covers many topics withing the first of ringing bass handbells, and Handbell Musicians of America recognizes it as a useful reference on the subject. You may ask what need there would be for such a volume. After all, “a handbell is a handbell …
Tag: bass handbell solo
Handbell solos have been around for quite a long time. They're a demonstration of unusual prowess and derring-do, since the performer has all of the handbells to herself. Generally, these works require speed, dexterity, precision, and - because of the previous three factors - memorization. One slip, and everything can fall apart.
It should be noted that handbell solos have traditionally been for treble ringers, with some intrusion into the bass range below C5, often with mallets. However, bass handbell solos actually exist, and extend the idea of "handbell solo" by requiring even more speed, dexterity, and precision, plus the added requirement of significant strength (due to the size of the bells).
Yes, there are people wo are crazy enough to attempt these, and some are here so you can join the fun.
Mar 17
Bass Handbell Solo: “Danny Boy”/”Londonderry Air”
I arranged “Danny Boy”/”Londonderry Air” for bass handbells over twenty years ago, and after a run at a Silicon Valley retirement facility, finally dared to play in public at the 2004 Area 12 conferences. Unfortunately, technology of the time didn’t give us an easy way to make even a scruffy video of what happened then. …
Sep 22
It’s Our Anniversary!
Today is our tenth anniversary! Not Choraegus (we celebrated 26 years at the end of last year), but OURS, as in Larry & Carla. From God making it possible for us to meet on the Handbell Community Online, to Facebook, to Skype, and through the Bay View Week of Handbells, where we met and got …
Oct 04
Beautiful Savior / Fairest Lord Jesus (St. ELIZABETH) (Bass Handbell Solo)
Wonderful things happen on social media from time to time. In this case, the suggestion for a bass handbell solo on ST. ELIZABETH came via Facebook. This solo is “reasonably easy”, with a pleasant countermelody in the middle verse. The ending has an option for a hook and Shelley, but comes with the notation “play …