Los Peces en el Rio (4-6 octaves handbells)

LOS PECES EN EL RIO – Mexican/arr. Scott Pfitzinger – 4-6 octaves handbells – Level IV

This piece combines two Mexican Christmas songs, “Los Peces en el Rio” and “Dale, Dale, Dale.” Variations on the first theme involve many techniques, including malleting (suspended and on the table), plucks, pluck-lifts, and gyros. The piece ends with a rousing rendition of “Dale, Dale, Dale,” which Mexican children sing when trying to hit the piñata, getting faster and faster, with marts simulating the swings at the piñata.

Recording by Embellish Handbell Ensemble from Grand Rapids, Michigan. If you’re interested, you may view CD information here (link will open in a separate window/tab).