Au Claire de la Lune
This enchanting, traditional children's folk song about writing a letter at night by the light of the moon has been set for beginning handbell or handchime choir in theme and variation form. With only a single key change, two measures with eighth note embellishments, and no special techniques, this is an ideal piece to teach your choir how to change keys smoothly. It is thought that the song dates from the Middle Ages or Renaissance, but its origin is lost in antiquity. It was first recorded for human voice in 1860.
Part of the French Folk Song Suite for Handbells, this piece may be played alone or in combination with any of the other pieces in the Suite. Titles in the Suite are: "Allouette", "Au Claire de la Lune", "Sur le Pont d’Avignon", and "Frère Jacques".