CHRISTMAS EVE (SARAJEVO 12/24) - Paul O'Neill and Robert Kinkel/arr. Hart Morris - 5-7 octaves handbells with optional 3-7 octaves handchimes and optional cello, flute, and percussion - Level III+
The rock band Trans-Siberian Orchestra had a big hit with this fast, energetic arrangement of Carol of the Bells. Driving rhythms propel this exciting title. Includes quotes from God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen as well. There are options to add cello, flute, tubular chimes, and suspended cymbal.
Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24) (5-7 octaves handbells)
CHRISTMAS MEDLEY - ANTIOCH, MENDELSSOHN, GLORIA, THE FIRST NOWELL, & VENI EMMANUEL, arranged by DWMorgan for Brass Quintet - Level 4
A Level 4 brass quintet arrangement of O Come, All Ye Faithful; Rise Up Shepherd, and Follow; O Little Town of Bethlehem; and Angels, from the Realms of Glory. This is a festive brass quintet arrangement with multiple key changes and solos in multiple parts. The arrangement is accessible for worship offerings and school or community groups.
CHRISTMAS PASTORALE - Johann Pachelbel/trans. Kevin McChesney - handbell tree duet with cello/organ/handbells off-the-table accompaniment
A flowing and lovely offering for concert or worship. Two handbell tree ringers create a beautiful atmosphere over a chorale melody played by cello, organ, or other instrument that can play a sustained part.
CLAIR DE LUNE - Claude Debussy/arr. Kevin McChesney - handbell quartet
The familiar strains of Debussy's wondrous classic make a magical bell quartet, first debuted by SEE's Dream Team 2007. Although quite challenging, you'll find your work very rewarding as you present this beautiful music.
CLAIR DE LUNE - Claude Debussy/trans. Kevin McChesney - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment
The familiar strains of Debussy's wondrous classic make a magical bell solo. Accessible yet intricate, this is flowing, beautiful music that will enhance your concert or worship services. It would also make a great handbell tree solo!
CLAIR DE LUNE - Claude Debussy/arr. Barbara Brocker and Rob Pearson - handbell tree solo with keyboard accompaniment
A dramatic and moving rendition of the Claude Debussy classic. This is part of the "Classical Bell Tree-O" (may be combined with other handbell tree classics - Sheep May Safely Graze and Morning Mood).
COLD DECEMBER FLIES AWAY (CATALONIAN CAROL) - LO DESEMBRE CONGELAT, arranged by Patricia Hurlbutt for Handbell Ensemble
This enthusiastic arrangement of the favorite Christmas carol starts with lovely and straightforward ideas, developing organically into rich and intricate variations. Displaying true ensemble ringing with much more than block chords, this setting shows only 8 bells in the finest musical light!
COME THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING - NETTLETON, arranged by Bill Ingram for Handbell Ensemble
Few writers know the possibilities of 12-bell music as well as Bill Ingram. Here is a full and beautiful setting of one of the great hymns by a master of the idiom.
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (handbell ensemble)
COME, CHRISTIANS! JOIN TO SING! - MADRID with HYFRYDOL, NEW BRITAIN, NICAEA, & EIN FESTE BURG, arranged by Peter de Mets for 5 Octaves Handbells and Optional 3 Octaves Handchimes - Level III+
Come, Christians! Join to Sing! (5 octaves handbells)
COME, THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING - Nettleton/arr. Mark Beall - handbell quartet
Lively quartet rendition of the tune Nettleton by Mark Beall. Covers 2 octaves so it is accessible by most ensembles. A stretch piece for beginners and a fun addition for experienced groups.
Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing (handbell quartet - Beall)
COME, THOU FOUNT OF EVERY BLESSING - Nettleton/arr. Matthew Prins - handbell quartet
A light, energetic arrangement of one of the great hymns of the church. Mallets throughout make for a lively time in worship or concert and develop your quartet's sense of playing musically together. A sure favorite!
Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing (handbell quartet - Prins)
COME, THOU LONG-EXPECTED JESUS - arr. Jean Coniber - handbell quartet
This is an ingenious and very lovely arrangement of the great Hyfrydol hymn tune with the traditional "Dona Nobis Pacem." While the text "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus" is appropriate for Advent and Christmas, this hymn tune is associated with many texts, so this straightforward and easy-to-learn quartet can be used all year long in worship and concert.
COMFORT YE from "MESSIAH" - arr. Kevin McChesney - 3-5 octaves handbells with optional C instrument - Level II+
A beautiful setting of one of the best-known arias from Handel's "Messiah." A great opportunity to show your ringers at their musical best, and to create a lovely moment in concert or worship. C instrument part is optional.
This is a brief tour of the elements of clear, inspiring conducting. Directing a musical group is much more than just keeping time and showing a beat pattern. Read about some simple devices to improve your directing skills.
For more handbell lessons presented in a unique and enjoyable format, be sure to check out Kevin McChesney's book, Limericks, Lessons, and Life in Handbells! Links in the "Related Products" section below.
CONSECRATED, SURRENDERED, LOVED - HENDON, SURRENDER, & GORDON, arranged by Linda R. Lamb for Handbell Ensemble
This is an ingenious medley of “Take My Life and Let It Be”, “I Surrender All”, and “My Jesus, I Love Thee”. Sure to connect the musicianship and hearts of your ringers to the hearts of your listeners in special, meaningful ways.
11 guidelines concerning copyright for the handbell (and other) musician. Staying true to copyright laws is pretty straightforward when you know some simple fundamentals.
For more handbell lessons presented in a unique and enjoyable format, be sure to check out Kevin McChesney's book, Limericks, Lessons, and Life in Handbells! Links in the "Related Products" section below.
Copyright: 11 Guidelines Concerning Copyright for the Handbell Musician (article)
