Ave Maria (3-5 octaves handbells)

AVE MARIA – Giulio Caccini/arr. Jefferey A. Hall – 3-5 octaves handbells with optional solo voice or unison choir – Level II

This haunting and evocative 16th century melody receives a straightforward and elegant treatment by Jeff Hall. Made famous to modern listeners in a recording by Charlotte Church, this is ethereal music which transports the listeners and ringers to another beautiful place. Options are given for a slightly more complex rhythm in the top line in some sections for use by more experienced choirs. The vocal line is optional and may be sung by a soloist, unison choir, or played on a C instrument such as flute or violin. Some titles are simply “can’t miss” for all choirs, and this is one of those titles.