“Solo Time 5 – Dorian Epic” is a short, bold piece in Dorian mode using 8 bells for Bell Tree Solo, 4iH duet, or 8 bell ensemble. Dorian mode offers a refreshing palette of tone colors; with lowered 3rd and 7th tones in a major scale, it sounds somewhat exotic, mostly minor. Kath Wissinger is a master of creating catchy melodies with interesting harmonies and this piece is no exception. It is ideal as a prelude for worship, using the subtitle “Steadfast Faith”, or as a short transitional piece for a school program or concert.

There are many options for performing this piece: 1) Bell Tree Solo, 2) Four-in-Hand duet, 3) 8-bell ensemble - Score “A” uses G5-G6, and Score “B” uses either C5-C6 or C6-C7. If C5-C6 is used with handbell ensemble accompaniment, you will need duplicates of these bells. For the other scores, a single duplicate bell is optional (G5 & C6, respectively). This score is compatible with a previously published score: “Dorian Epic” RE3023AB12, Level 1 for 2-5 octaves.

Accompaniment choices include piano, guitar, handbell/hand chime choir or digital sound file, available as a free download. Please note: the accompaniment is not optional. The solo performer(s) can learn the piece, and the rest of the ringing ensemble can easily work up the accompaniment in one session to record for worship or concert. An “Introduction to Bell Trees” video demonstrating how to string bells on a stick or a stand may be found here.

The Solo Time series is an engaging series offered by ringTrue targeting ringers who want to practice small pieces at home for their own enjoyment and self improvement, to record them for worship or concert needs, and even to play them in public! Each piece also offers options to include additional ringers.

Solo Time pieces are REPRODUCIBLE by the original purchaser and are available as a digital download site license, allowing easy sharing within an ensemble or class. Ringing scores and piano accompaniment scores are available in hard copy as well; sound files for accompaniment options for rehearsal and performance are included as free downloadable Zip files from HandbellWorld.com.

Look for more innovative solo pieces by Kathleen Wissinger in the Solo Time series, as well as many other solo, duet, bell tree, 4iH and small ensemble pieces from ringTrue to accommodate your ringers (or you!) - "home alone" with a few bells or chimes! Of course, ringers can also use these pieces in a more normal rehearsal setting. Best wishes for happy, healthy ringing!