Sakura III
This beautifully scored interpretation of a Japanese folk song includes all ringers in a delicate 16th-note embellishment with one major key change. This arrangement emphasizes the importance of balanced voicing among main themes and counter-themes.
All three Sakura scores [Sakura I (L1) RE30011; Sakura II (L2) RE30012; and Sakura III (L3) RE32013] are compatible; plus - either staff of any version may be paired with any of the other scores, in case you have a Split-Level group or two with a range of abilities! This L3 version was written for Kevin Mazimas Ko, who often has groups of differing levels perform together, and he needed one more version of this piece for his more advanced ringers. Perhaps you do, too!
Written in A minor, then C minor, these pieces also may be adapted for Orff or other instruments for a full ensemble or all school inclusive experience. Choral singing may also be added – higher voices for the first section (Am) and lower voices (Cm) the second section. The Japanese song text is included on the front cover.
In addition to writing well-crafted scores for handbells, Kathleen Wissinger shows how adept she is at adapting scores for specific ringer needs and at broadening the scope of a piece to serve many different situations. These three Sakura arrangements, alone or combined, are ideal for classroom use teaching easy 16th-note patterns, combined-grades all-inclusive school concerts, multi-level festivals, workshops, and conferences, or even a nature-themed worship service.