Ukrainian Bell Carol was first known as “Schedryk”/«Щедрик» when Mykola Leontovych wrote it in 1916. And then… in 1941, Peter Wilhousky wrote the lyrics entitled “Carol of the Bells”, the title under which credit is usually given in the United States. We present our arrangement of Leontovych’s composition under its “more original” title. We think …
Tag: handbell ensemble
This composition is for handbell ensemble. The pitch range depends on the whim of the composer; there are pieces of this type for all ranges of handbells. The number of ringers can also vary quite a bit, but the general rule is that this number is smaller than that of a full-sized handbell choir.
Apr 04
Cavatina (Handbells, 3 or 5 octaves, Level 3)
Stanley Myers’ Cavatina, brings a thoughtful air to the listener. Our arrangement for three or five octaves of handbells imitates the openness and simplicity of the original classical guitar score. Your ensemble will find it quite accessible in terms of the written notes, but will also experience tremendous scope for development of expression as they …
Mar 28
In the Garden (GARDEN) (Handbells, 3 to 5 octaves, Level 3-)
In the Garden is an early twentieth-century Gospel song by C. Austin Miles. It’s about those solitary times when we find the Savior waiting for us in a peaceful place, and spend time rejoicing in His presence. This is one of the most popular hymns of all time! We have a new arrangement of In …
Mar 16
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (LOBE DEN HERREN) (Handbells, 2 octaves, Level 3-)
The title from Joachim Neander’s German 1680 chorale, reads even more impressively in German: Lobe den Herren, den mächtigen König der Ehren. “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” has been a church favorite for many years – after all, our very lives depend on God and His infinite power. Our arrangement for two octaves of …
Mar 10
When Morning Gilds the Skies (LAUDES DOMINI) (Handbells, 2 octaves, Level 2)
When Morning Gilds the Skies has… well, that “morning” quality on a cool spring day when the sun rises gently in the east over hills of flowers. Our new arrangement will add to your church services in the springtime… or just about any time during the year! When morning gilds the skies my heart awaking …
Mar 06
O Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High (DEO GRACIAS) (Handbells, 2 octaves, Level 3-)
O Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High attempts the impossible task of describing God’s transcendent qualities in mere human words. You can’t explain His eternity in a finite amount of time, nor His omniscience with limited experience, nor his holiness from a sinner’s point of view. Se just have to give it all we …
Mar 03
My Shepherd Will Supply My Need (RESIGNATION) (Handbells, two octaves, Level 2)
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He seeks us when we stray, and guides us when we stay by His side. And one day, He will take us to be in His presence forever. Our two-octave arrangement will give your congregation an opportunity to reflect on these wonderful truths! My Shepherd will supply my need, Jehovah …
Feb 20
That Easter Day with Joy was Bright (Handbells, 2 octaves, Level 2+)
That Easter Day with Joy was Bright is sung to the 15th century hymn tune PUER NOBIS. It’s traditionally sung for Easter, but can be played for Advent as On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry. Our new arrangement for two octaves will work well with your ensemble, because it’s a very accessible Level 2+. That …
Feb 17
Come Thou Almighty King (ITALIAN HYMN) – Eight handbells
Come, Thou Almighty King is a grand hymn about our need for the Lord to have our loyalty. The tune ITALIAN HYMN was written in 1769 by Felice de Giardini, who had a thoroughgoing musical career as a violinist and composer. Our arrangement for eight handbells provides excitement with a moderate technical challenge, so you …
Feb 15
Winter Wonderland (Handbells, 5 octaves, plus handchimes, 3 octaves, Level 5)
According to Wikipedia, Richard Bernhard Smith wrote the lyrics for “Winter Wonderland” while recovering from tuberculosis in 1934. That same year, Felix Bernard added the tune that has now been covered over 200 times! This song speaks fun and romance during the cold season, about playing in the snow, and planning for great time ahead, …