Anything Goes
This favorite song by Cole Porter was written specifically for his musical of the same name which opened in 1934. Nick's arrangement is true to the original and beautifully adapted to handbell and handchime sounds and techniques which emphasize the rhythm and style.
It begins with the temple or wood blocks (part is written into the handbell score) with TD and Pl in the bells while handchimes ring the 'verse' melody. This continues through the segue into the chorus/main theme of the tune. As it progresses, full use of bells brings energy which continues to build through gradual increases in tempo, while the addition of mallets and RT emphasize the syncopation. A key change features just a few bells ushering in a solo percussion section - 'percussion' comprised of mallet handles striking bell handles and music folders plus foot stomps which abruptly welcome all bells at ff for the final return to this engaging title! Nick's gift for creative, top-notch arranging is apparent in his latest work and is guaranteed to be an audience – and ringer – favorite!
Additional information of interest: In creating the lyrics of this tune, Cole Porter included "humorous references to figures of scandal and gossip from Depression-era high society." An online search for the lyrics and other background information about this title is rich with history and societal changes, many of which seem quite relevant today!