Just in time for Christmas, we have a new twelve-bell arrangement of Angels, from the Realms of Glory (tune: REGENT SQUARE) for those who need a bit more in the way of holiday handbells. It’s challenging, so be prepared to have fun! Angels from the realms of glory / Wing your flight o’er all the …
Tag: handbells
Handbells were invented in 17-century England as a practice tool for tower bell ringers. They could then rehearse in warmer and cheerier places than belfries - to wit, the local pubs. At some point, someone noticed that it was possible to play tunes (rather than just "changes") on handbells, and so "tune ringing" began. The music available from Choraegus followed the tune ringing tradition as practiced and performed in the modern era,
Nov 30
The First Nowell – for sixteen handbells, reissued!
We took a look at our sixteen-bell arrangement of The First Nowell, and decided to revise it. The result of this work is a score that’s more elegant and, we think, “Christmassy” than the old version. This also gave us a chance to reformat it into a “dual-range”™ package as well, with one version in …
The First Nowell – Sixteen handbells
We hear that the tune for this carol was from W. Sandy’s Christmas Carols, published in 1833, and arranged by none other than John Stainer (who is well-known for his wonderful work “God So Loved the World”). The first Nowell the angel did say was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In …
Nov 27
As with Gladness Men of Old (DIX) – Twelve-Handbell Version
Here’s our twelve-bell arrangement(s) of the nineteenth-century Epiphany carol As with Gladness Men of Old, sung to the hymn tune DIX!
As with Gladness Men of Old (DIX) – Twelve handbells
The hymn tune DIX is usually sung with the texts For the Beauty of the Earth and As with Gladness Men of Old (the latter most often at Christmas). For the beauty of the earth, For the glory of the skies, For the love which from our birth Over and around us lies. Christ, our …
Once in Royal David’s City (IRBY) – Six handbells and piano
There are a number of hymns where the lyrics preceded the music by being written as a poem. Once in Royal David’s City was written by Cecil Frances Alexander, and a year after its publication Henry John Gauntlett composed the melody IRBY that we know and love. Historical footnote: Mrs. Alexander wasn’t a one-hit wonder… …
Nov 24
Once in Royal David’s City – for six handbells and piano
There are a number of hymns where the lyrics preceded the music by being written as a poem. Once in David’s Royal City was written by Cecil Frances Alexander, and a year after its publication Henry John Gauntlett composed the melody that we know and love. Historical footnote: Mrs. Alexander wasn’t a one-hit wonder… she …
Nov 19
St. Anthony Chorale – for eight handbells
Joseph Haydn wrote this chorale in the 18th century. Our arrangement for eight handbells is quite accessible, and will be a welcome addition to any church service.
St. Anthony Chorale – Eight handbells
Joseph Haydn wrote this chorale in the 18th century. It’s a lovely piece from the Classical period which will work well as a prelude or offertory. Standard Version: ”Dual-Range”™ Score Package: $ US G5-based practice track: $ US F5-based practice track: $ US Purchasing this 8-bell arrangement gives you permission to print and maintain up …
Nov 16
Marvelous Grace – for six handbells and piano
This was one of my favorite hymns as a teenager. The message is timeless, and the singing was always strong and glorious. Our arrangement for six handbells and piano will be a great addition to your repertoire! Marvelous grace of our loving Lord, grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt, yonder on Calvary’s mount …
