Despite the Storm
Commissioned for the Handbell Musicians of America, Area 8 2016 Festival/Conference, "Despite the Storm" is dedicated to the memory of Cheryl Abney, longtime Area 8 board member. This original composition for handbells, optional handchimes, and optional flute (or violin) features a nautical, Celtic-flavored melody in G minor, with a gentle LV accompaniment. The second section is in C minor and includes a repetitive, turbulent 16th-note handbell ostinato played over the bass and lower treble handchime melody. The next section returns to the original melody; but now in G major, it is full and chordal, with a soaring flute descant. The work ends with calming singing bells. 110 measures.