“Eight-bell collaborations” are arrangements (or original works) for eight handbells and other instruments. Most of the time, the “other” is piano or organ, but we also have pieces such as “Heather’s Dance” that have a more unusual instrumentation (bells, harp, and other instrument).
Some of these were created for a melody that didn’t… well, almost fit into eight bells. Usually this happens because there is a very important melody note that happens to be an accidental. More often that that, the melody will have more than eight notes, with the notes at both ends being essential.
Other times, the collaboration has been by request. “Silver and Bronze” was piece I wrote for a concert with an incredible flutist – so this piece was designed to be interesting as well as a challenge for all members of the ensemble.
Regardless of the type of ensemble, I hope you enjoy playing these works!
