Handbell folks find it’s never too early to start thinking about what we’re going to play for the Christmas (technically, Advent + Christmas + Epiphany) season. The world around us associated handbells with Christmas, so we have to be ready to play in church, at Christmas parties, and even outdoor events such as parades. Today …
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,
Jun 04
Our first US duet performance
Many of you know that Carla and I (Larry) were in a long-distance relationship between California and England for several years. After getting engaged in 2011, we worked on getting her a fiancée visa; it was approved in time for August 2012 to be the Month of One-Way Plane Tickets. I flew from California to …
Sleigh Ride (Mozart, Drei Deutsche Tänze, No. 3) – Sixteen handbells
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, one of the exceptional musical geniuses of all time, started composing music when he was just four years old, and has had a lasting influence ever since then. He composed Drei Deutsche Tänze (“Three German Dances”) in 1791; the third dance in this suite bears the nickname “Sleigh Ride” (not to be …
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (HYFRYDOL) (Handbells, 3 octaves, Level 2)
The popular Welsh tune Hyfrydol was composed by Rowland Prichard and has been matched to many hymn texts. It’s almost certain that you’ll find it as the melody in more than one place in your hymnal! Hymn tune: HYFRYDOL Find metrically-matched hymn texts Preview: Handbell Choir Version: $ US Also available for 6 accompanied handbells …
Once in Royal David’s City (IRBY) (Handbells, 3 octaves, Level 2+)
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 IRBY that we know and love. Historical footnote: Mrs. Alexander wasn’t a one-hit wonder… …
O Holy Night (CANTIQUE DE NOEL) (Handbells, 3 octaves, Level 3-)
O Holy Night is perhaps one of the most dramatically-presented of all English language Christmas carols. It’s been performed by countless artists, and has been a favorite of many people all their lives. O holy night! the stars are brightly shining; It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth. Long lay the world in …
May 31
New freebie: “Daisy Bell” for eight handbells!
Daisy Bell, also known as A Bicycle Built for Two, was written in the late nineteenth century by Harry Dacre. If you’re movie buff, you’ll probably remember that it was sung by Hal, the computer from 2001, A Space Odyssey. I remember learning it from my mom and grandmother. Most people I know sing only …
Daisy Bell (Eight handbells)
Daisy Bell, also known as A Bicycle Built for Two, was written in the late nineteenth century by Harry Dacre. If you’re movie buff, you’ll probably remember that it was aung by Hal, the computer from 2001, A Space Odyssey. I remember learning it from my mom and grandmother. Most people I know sing only …
Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne (MARGARET) (Handbells, 3 octaves, Level 2)
The absolute humility that the Son of God showed in coming to earth is shown in this Christmas song. He descended from a heavenly throne to start mortal life in a manger, and now beckons to all of us to share in all that He has. Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown …
Hark, the Herald Angels Sing (MENDELSSOHN) (Handbells, 3 octaves, Level 2)
Christmas is a time for angels, who received the very special musical assignment of singing about the birth of the Messiah. This Level 2 arrangement for three octaves will add to your celebration! Hark! the herald angels sing, “Glory to the newborn King: peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!” Joyful, all …
