"C" IS FOR CLASSICS - arr. Kevin Bryant - 3 or 5 octaves handbells - Level III-
This medley of familiar classical favorites has a special part written for a "guest" ringer! Get your pastor, a potential new ringer, a child, even an unsuspecting volunteer from the audience or congregation into the act! All they need to do is ring when you point at them. This part could also be played by a "bored" ringer who is tired of not having enough notes to play. Entertaining and fun, a sure-fire winner in your concerts.
Teaching bells, there are many gimmicks
Which offer great ideas to mimic.
In this book, you'll hear it,
Techniques, music, spirit,
And even life's lessons in limericks.
LIMERICKS, LESSONS, AND LIFE IN HANDBELLS by Kevin McChesney
Teaching bells, there are many gimmicks
Which offer great ideas to mimic.
In this book, you'll hear it,
Techniques, music, spirit,
And even life's lessons in limericks.
LIMERICKS, LESSONS, AND LIFE IN HANDBELLS by Kevin McChesney
"Ringing Deeply" makes a great gift or keepsake for the ringers and bell directors in your life. Thoughtful, insightful, and inspirational, these devotions will inspire handbell musicians to deeper, more meaningful ringing and living.
FEATURES Scripture, Reflections, Prayers. Recommended Ringing, beautiful photography TOPICS Church Year, Seasons, Celebrations INDEXES Scripture, Composer, Title
"Ringing Deeply" by Brian Childers (digital download)
"Ringing Deeply" makes a great gift or keepsake for the ringers and bell directors in your life. Thoughtful, insightful, and inspirational, these devotions will inspire handbell musicians to deeper, more meaningful ringing and living.
FEATURES Scripture, Reflections, Prayers. Recommended Ringing, beautiful photography TOPICS Church Year, Seasons, Celebrations INDEXES Scripture, Composer, Title
A FRIEND FOR LIFE - Brian Childers - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment
This original work is mesmerizing and beautiful. The masterful interplay of themes between the ringer and keyboardist make for a stunning addition to worship, concert, or a wedding.
A MIGHTY FORTRESS - J. C. Bach/arr. Kevin McChesney - handbell quartet
Johann C. Bach's arrangement of the hymn tune Ein Feste Berg, set for handbell quartet by Kevin McChesney, can be used alone or as a splashy introduction for congregational singing of the hymn.
A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD - arr. J.C. Bach/trans. Kevin McChesney - 3-7 octaves handbells - Level III-
Johann Christoph Bach created a wonderful keyboard classic with his arrangement of A Mighty Fortress Is Our God. Kevin McChesney has transcribed the piece for handbells for use in worship or concert. It makes a magnificent fanfare, opener, anthem, or introduction to the singing of the hymn. Powerful music for your group!
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God (3-7 octaves handbells)
A NEW NAME IN GLORY - NEW NAME, arranged by Bill Ingram for Handbell Ensemble
Praising the forgiveness of sins and a new life of glory, A New Name in Glory gives handbell ensembles an exciting way to celebrate their faith! With a slower and more thoughtful middle section separating the more upbeat beginning and ending, this arrangement keeps listeners engaged and gives ringers a chance to show different styles.
A PATRIOTIC CELEBRATION - "My Country, 'Tis of Thee," "America, the Beautiful," and "Star-Spangled Banner", arr. Bob Burroughs - 3-6 octaves handbells with optional 3 octaves handchimes - Level III
This 3-6 octave Level III setting encompasses three of the most popular patriotic songs with majesty, honor, challenge and a true feeling of patriotism for both ringers and listeners. Well-written for your musical success, with engaging "surprise" chords, technique suggestions and more. A fine selection for an annual concert or festival standard!
A THOUSAND AGES - Julie Turner - 3-5 octaves handbells with optional 3-7 octaves handchimes - Level III
A gorgeous, expressive original work that heightens worship and spiritual connection in special ways, this master-work from the pen of Julie Turner is bold, exciting, and always fresh. An amazing addition to concert or worship and a wonderful follow-up to Julie's astonishing "From Everlasting To Everlasting" (see "Related Products" below).
ABIDE WITH ME - EVENTIDE, arranged by Bill Ingram for Handbell Ensemble
Sometimes the most important ministry we have to offer is to honor tradition and play the familiar and wonderful hymns as beautifully and with as much heart as we can. This accessible arrangement does that and more through clear speech and wonderful musicianship.
ADAGIO CANTABILE from "Sonata Pathetique" - Ludwig van Beethoven/trans. Kevin McChesney - 4-5 octaves handbells - Level IV
This timeless classic is transcribed accurately and tastefully for bells. The memorable main theme has been used in movies and radio shows and has even found its way into popular songs. Filled with beautiful music moments, this enduring classic will linger in the ears of listeners long after the performance is over.
ADESTE FIDELES - arr. R. Vilbac/handbell setting by Kevin McChesney - 3-7 octaves handbells - Level III+
The timeless and majestic Adeste Fideles (O Come, All Ye Faithful) receives a treatment of enormous majesty and dignity in this 3-7 octave setting. Given a Level III+ rating because of a few chromatics and the activity at the end, you will find this music very accessible and straightforward to learn. A beautiful and bold sound with lots of visual possibilities as well.
ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS' NAME - arr. Linda Lamb - handbell quartet
A magnificent, meaningful hymn receives a full, big-sounding treatment in this well-crafted quartet. This accessible arrangement will add excitement and beauty to your services and concerts.
All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name (handbell quartet)
ALL THE WORLD - arr. Jad Johnson and Larry Sue - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment and optional percussion
This accompaniment track provides an alternative to live piano accompaniment for rehearsal or performance, for Jad Johnson and Larry Sue's arrangement of All the World (linked in the Related Products section below). Please note, it is a midi rendering, not a live recording.
Note: the audio preview below includes both the handbell part and the accompaniment track - this is what they will sound like together.
ALL THE WORLD - arr. Jad Johnson and Larry Sue - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment and optional percussion
A stunning setting of the hymn Jesus Is All The World To Me. Flowing and rich in the opening section, with a lively, exciting rhythmic section to take it home. A truly great arrangement arising from the collaboration of two great talents.
Note: a midi of the accompaniment part alone is linked in the Related Products section below.
ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL - arr. Sandra Eithun - handbell quartet/quintet/sextet/ensemble
Worshipers and concert-goers will always appreciate a fine, meaningful hymntune presented with confidence and beauty. And that is exactly what Sandra provides in this accessible, full-sounding arrangement.
All Things Bright and Beautiful (handbell quartet/quintet/sextet/ensemble)
ALL THROUGH THE NIGHT - AR HYD Y NOS, arranged by Patricia Hurlbutt for Handbell Tree Solo with Piano
Flowing and rich describe this handbell tree arrangement by Patricia Hurlbutt. Taking the Welsh tune AR HYD Y NOS, known to many as All Through the Night or Go, My Children, With My Blessing, and letting it shine out on both the piano and handbell parts, this arrangement fills the room with a musical blessing.
ALLEGRO GIOCOSO - G.F. Handel/arr. Kevin McChesney - 3-7 octaves handbells - Level III
From the famous "Water Music," this is a lively and exciting title that translates perfectly for bells. Many possibilities for worship and concert use, as well as for visual presentation and coordinated movement. This is bold, winning music that has thrilled audiences for centuries.
ALLELUIA, arranged by Howard Gould and Ann Nethery for Unaccompanied Handbell Duet
An unaccompanied handbell duet, which can be further divided among three or four ringers. This is a simple setting may be performed on chimes, bells, or other instruments delineating verses by volume, tempo, or instrument.
This article, written by Sharon Guilliams, gives instructions for how to build a handbell tree stand for about $60. It provides a more long-term, sturdy solution than the six-dollar handbell tree article, without breaking the bank!
AMAZING GRACE - arr. Kevin McChesney - handbell solo/duet with keyboard accompaniment
Amazing Grace may have more arrangements in the bell world than any other hymn, but there are still arrangements that make this great hymn new and powerful. Intertwining a majestic and beautiful original tune with timeless favorite, this setting will create a prayerful and wonderful spiritual place for your listeners.
AMAZING GRACE - arr. Barbara Brocker and Rob Pearson - handbell tree solo with keyboard accompaniment
No one knows how to make handbell trees soar and express the heart of the music like Barb Brocker. This is one of her very best offerings, a marvelous choice for worship or concert.
AMAZING TRUST - arr. Brian Childers - 3-6 octaves handbells - Level IV
A well-conceived blending of Amazing Grace and 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, this beautiful arrangement will easily find a place in worship or concert.
AMAZING TRUST - arr. Brian Childers - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment
A well-conceived blending of Amazing Grace and 'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus, this beautiful arrangement will easily find a place in worship or concert.
AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL - MATERNA & NATIONAL HYMN/arr. Kevin McChesney - handbell tree solo with C instrument (or handbell tree duet) with keyboard accompaniment
This is beautiful and uplifting music for concert or worship. May be played as a handbell tree solo or handbell tree duet, or bell tree ringer and flute or violin, with keyboard as a vital member of the ensemble. The lovely setting blends "America the Beautiful" and "National Hymn" (best-known with the text God of Our Fathers).
AN AULD ENGLISH CHRISTMAS - I SAW THREE SHIPS & GOD REST YOU MERRY, arranged by Linda R. Lamb for Handbell Quintet
Originally written for a family of ringers, this quintet combines two favorite Christmas carols, beginning with I Saw Three Ships with a playful and lilting Celtic accompaniment, then moving into a more chordal treatment of God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen with a few percussive techniques throughout to fit with the light feel of the first carol.
AN EASTER STORY - arr. Karen Robards - handbell trio/quartet/quintet/ensemble
A collage of the tunes "All Glory, Laud, and Honor," "O Sacred Head Now Wounded," and "Christ the Lord Is Risen Today." Playable by trio, quartet or quintet (13 bells).
An Easter Story (handbell trio/quartet/quintet/ensemble)
ANDANTE - Vivaldi/arr. Kevin McChesney - handbell trio/ensemble with optional C instrument
Three parts with many options! The parts are scored on seperate lines for multiple options - handbell trees, four-in-hand, chimes, other C instrument - you create your own ensemble effect!
ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH - arr. Jacques Kearns - 2 octaves handbells - Level I+
Arranged by Jacques Kearns, here is a great arrangement for your level one-plus choir. The only bell changes occur in the F5-G5 position. This is a very accessible piece, with the main rhythmic challenge being eighth notes and dotted eighth-sixteenth combinations.
Angels We Have Heard on High (2 octaves handbells)
ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH - arr. Tim Waugh - handbell duet/trio/quartet/ensemble
Non-traditional assignments suggested make this Christmas "staple" approachable for competent duet ringers. Re-assign to more ringers for an effective quartet offering. Single page.
Angels We Have Heard on High (handbell duet/trio/quartet/ensemble)
ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH - arr. Kevin McChesney - handbell duet with keyboard accompaniment
A fine setting with a brilliant sound, this lovely arrangement of the favorite carol "Angels We Have Heard On High" may be played as a solo or duet with keyboard accompaniment, and works well for both off-the-table and handbell trees.
APPALACHIAN RHAPSODY by Dillon Ekle (Based on the tunes SALVATION (R. Boyd) and TENDER THOUGHT (A. Davisson), from the Kentucky Harmony (1816)) for 3-5 Octaves Handbells and Optional 2 Octaves Handchimes - Level III+
APPALACHIAN SUNRISE - Scott Pfitzinger - 3-5 octaves handbells - Level II
This is a lovely, poignant piece that paints a musical picture of a quiet sunrise in the mountains. Can be used as a meditative piece for a church service or as a concert piece. Try it on all chimes for an especially gentle feel.
ARIOSO by J.S. Bach, arranged by Howard Gould for Unaccompanied Handbell Solo or Duet
A very flexible offering - the well-known and beloved J. S. Bach Arioso arranged by Howard Gould. Challenging for solo or duet, the parts can be further divided for a larger or less experienced ensemble. Legato, singing line is the technical challenge in presentation.
ASCENSION - Kevin McChesney - handbell quartet with keyboard accompaniment
The handbell quartet is actually part of a quintet involving the keyboard as its fifth member in this stunning original work. This is energetic, vibrant music with a brilliant contemporary flare.
ASH GROVE - ASH GROVE, arranged by Bill Ingram for 3-5 Octaves Handbells - Level II
An accessible arrangement of the hymn tune ASH GROVE, this could be presented under the title "Let All Things Now Living", "Sent Forth With God's Blessing", or simply "Ash Grove" in worship or concert.
ASH GROVE - ASH GROVE, arranged by Bill Ingram for Handbell Ensemble
An accessible 12 bell arrangement of the hymn tune ASH GROVE, this could be presented under the title "Let All Things Now Living", "Sent Forth With God's Blessing", or simply "Ash Grove" in worship or concert.
AT THE LAMB'S HIGH FEAST - SALZBURG, arranged by Kurt Meyer - 3-5 octaves handbells - Level III
Based on the hymn tune SALZBURG (known most commonly as “At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing” or “Songs of Thankfulness and Praise”), this high-energy arrangement would make a wonderful addition to a concert or for use in worship (Easter, Thanksgiving, general worship). The arrangement is full of a variety of handbell techniques and percussive textures to draw interest for both handbell ringers and listeners alike.
AULD LANG SYNE - arr. Blanche Marie Lewis - handbell tree solo/duet (unaccompanied)
Ring in the new year - literally! - with this lovely setting of Auld Lang Syne. Play as a duet for less accomplished handbell tree players or as an off-the-table duet, or a more experienced handbell tree soloist plays all the notes.
AVE VERUM CORPUS - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart/arr. Scott Pfitzinger - 2 octaves handbells with 3-5 octaves handchimes (or 3-5 octaves handbells) - Level III
This simple and reverent Eucharistic hymn by Mozart, originally for SATB choir, strings, and organ, is designed to allow the melody to shine on bells while the accompaniment is played on chimes. However, it can be played on all bells or chimes if desired. While particularly effective in a worship service or mass, this piece can also add a touch of simple elegance and reverence to a concert.
AWAY IN A MANGER - arr. Tim Waugh - handbell duet/trio/quartet/ensemble
A one-pager that's as simple as it gets. Notations are provided by arranger Tim Waugh for duet assignment. Assign more ringers for quick learning or for a less experienced ensemble.
Away In A Manger (handbell duet/trio/quartet/ensemble)
AWAY IN A MANGER - arr. Brian Childers - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment
Brian Childers works his magic on this easy-to-learn but musically sophisticated arrangement of this Christmas favorite. Using the lovely "Cradle Song" tune, this is a marvelous choice for concert and worship.
AWAY IN A MANGER - James R. Murray/arr. Linda R. Lamb - handbell solo with keyboard accompaniment
This lovely arrangement of the Christmas favorite, Away in a Manger, finds beauty in simplicity. Perfect for solo ringers of any skill level, this accessible piece allows for musical interpretation throughout. It is also versatile, being playable either off-the-table or on bell tree.
