Diminished Minor Alterations
This was originally composed for concert band – and Chris has done an amazing job of arranging this unique and engaging collection of Christmas and holiday tunes for handbells. It begins in Bb-minor, segues to C-minor, ending in G-minor. Yes – you read correctly: Christmas tunes arranged in minor keys – thus the title! Changes in style, tempo, and dynamics plus melody appearing in both treble and bass with the addition of handchimes will keep everyone engaged as this arrangement rollicks along!
The arrangement includes shakes, mallets, and nicely placed mart and mart-lifts plus optional percussion instruments – triangle, cymbal, tambourine, and orchestra chimes.
A creative person can think of many ways to program this – including challenging the audience to identify the different tunes that are included. There are sections clearly featuring a carol but then a segue or counter-melody comes along and one may stop and wonder – did I just hear a snippet of "We Wish You A Merry Christmas?" ... or 'What was the title of that tune?!"
This will be a thoroughly delightful addition to your holiday concert!