This jaunty 17th century English carol is perfectly timed for a beginning Fall group to master by Christmas-time. Part of the “Class ring” series, “I Saw Three Ships A & B” introduces ¾ time and includes a Unison Exercise page to teach all the skills and theory required in the piece. After playing through this worksheet, your ringers will be ready to successfully master the entire piece.
Scored for both 2 octave (A) and 3/5 octave (B) groups (not compatible as they are in different keys), this arrangement features melody in bass with dotted half note chordal accompaniment in the A section; followed by half note/quarter note chordal patterns in the B section, a little double voicing, and a small section of optional marts for the lower notes. An optional repeat allows for longer playing time without page turns, if this is used for outreach ringing at a Salvation Army kettle, on a float in a Holiday parade or for a Christmas carol “flash mob.” Your ringers will be proud of themselves for mastering this simple yet satisfying arrangement.