La Mer (The Sea)
Suzanne Ciani's mesmerizing New Age piano solo is perfectly reinterpreted by LV arpeggios across 5 octaves of handbells with non-stop 8th notes and crashing chords depicting waves. Impressionistic and lush, "La Mer" draws ringer and listener alike into the pulsing power of the sea. Windchimes and suspended cymbal add to the drama. The 5 oct. score stands alone but can be enhanced with additional solo instruments found in the Director's Score (RE8008DR) - each with its own voice: Flute 1 requires a very capable musician; C Instrument 2 (oboe preferred) is slightly easier; Cello/Bass Guitar and a brief stint for acoustic guitar, and a Level 1 Choir II score (for chimes). Originally written for the advanced teen group "touch of Jesus" in 2001, this new, more fully-orchestrated version of "La Mer" was premiered at the 17th International Handbell Symposium 2016 (Vancouver, BC, Canada) by Bells of the Sound and Tinabulations, directed by Shirley Lindberg. 92 measures.