Lynne Hollander writes this about her original work "Hosanna! Hosanna! Hear the chimes ring! Hosanna! Hosanna! Hosanna to our King!" This is the text that kept running around in my head as I composed this song for chime choir. The tempo is the only thing that causes it to be rated two-plus. Otherwise it fits nicely in the one-plus category. Encourage your chimers or ringers to listen for the trumpet, tambourine and drum sounds hidden in the music, and help them to find the melody in the middle section.
Composer: Holländer, L. Arranger: Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2+ Publisher: Ring Out Press Rating: Easy
The third volume in this series focuses on the season hymns of All Saints' Day, Ascension, Christ the King, Communion, Pentecost, Reformation & Trinity Sunday.
Composer: Various Arranger: Page, A. L. Octaves: 3 Level: 2+ Publisher: Alfred Handbell / Jubilate Music Group Rating: Medium
This hymn concerto is based on the tune DUKE STREET, and combines SAB choir, congregation, organ, and optional trumpet with 2-3 octaves of bells.
Composer: Hatton, John W. Arranger: Behnke, John A. Octaves: 2-3 Level: 3 Publisher: Concordia Publishing House Rating: Easy
Composer: King, Larry Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating:
Based on the hymn tune RESTORATION, this multi-season arrangement by Matthew Compton sends the listener on a marvelous journey through beautifully contrasting and expressive interpretations of the each stanza of the hymn.
Composer: Traditional Arranger: Compton, Matthew Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: AGEHR Publishing Rating: Medium
Combining 2 tunes, "Duke Street" and "Coronation," with handbells and piccolo trumpet produces a triumphant piece suitable for any festive occasion.
Composer: Hatton, J./Holden, O. Arranger: Sanders, P. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3+ Publisher: Beckenhorst Press, Inc. Rating: Medium
"Jesus shall reign where'er the sun does its successive journeys run." This first line of the hymn tune DUKE STREET conveys triumph and victory, and so does this arrangement and adaptation for two octaves of handbells. The music begins simply, but soon builds. A second section features the melody in the bass with a gliding, eighth-note accompaniment overhead in the treble.
Arranger: Hatton, J. Octaves: 2 Level: 2 Publisher: Shawnee Press, Inc. Rating: Easy
The stately hymn of DUKE STREET is presented in a fresh but straight-forward manner.
Composer: Hatton, John Arranger: Endean, Judy Octaves: 2 Level: 2+ Publisher: SoundForth Publications / Lorenz Co. Rating: Easy Medium
"Joy Dawned Again on Easter Day" pairs a jubilant Easter text with a spirited medieval carol known as PUER NOBIS NASCITUR. Arranged by Karen Buckwalter for 12 handbells (F5 to C7) with piano accompaniment, this joyful hymn is appropriate for all of Eastertide.
Composer: Praetorius, Michael Arranger: Buckwalter, Karen Lakey Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
Simple, exciting and rhythmically easy. Mart technique is used extensively. Several key changes and some accidentals. Chime notes (opt. 4 oct.) are scored with diamond shaped noteheads. #1710 is 2-3 oct. version.
Composer: Kinyon, B. Arranger: Octaves: 4-5 Level: NA Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Easy Medium
"Kaleidoscope" is a charming piece of music using tone clusters and random ringing. Expect a good workout on shaking! This work would be excellent for a general concert.
Composer: Luethi, G. Arranger: Octaves: 4 Level: 4 Publisher: Flagstaff Publishing Rating: Medium
If your handbell ensemble is lacking the “traditional” number of ringers and needs a flexible arrangement, have a look at our "Ring More With Less" Series for 5 to 7 ringers. LAND OF REST is a popular American folk hymn used in conjunction with a variety of texts.
Composer: American Folk Tune Arranger: Thompson, Karen Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy Medium
A continuation of the best selling "Let Praises Ring," Volume 2 contains hymn tunes for Fall Festivals, Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost. For handbells, organ, and congregation, each setting includes an introduction and a "final" verse with a bit more elaboration.
Composer: Various Arranger: Peery, Charles E. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating: Easy Medium
The publisher writes: This collection includes nine accessible hymn setting for two-octave choirs. They may be played just prior to the community's singing of the hymn or they may serve as preludes, postludes or instrumental presentation. The index with seasonal use recommendations makes it easy to play and use this collection throughout the church year.
Composer: Various Arranger: Hopson, H./Wagner, D. Octaves: 2 Level: 3 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Medium
"Prospect" is given a warm, gentle setting incorporating original material (reminiscent of a bell peal) that establishes an ethereal quality.
Composer: Walker, W. Arranger: McKlveen, Paul A. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Medium
Folk hymns, gospel tunes, and contemporary choruses make up this collection of ten arrangements by well-known composers.
Composer: Various Arranger: Pugh, L. compiler Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
This is a setting of Responsorial Psalm 104, Suitable for Pentecost, Confirmation, and other occasions that celebrate the Holy Spirit.
Composer: Traditional Arranger: Chepponis, James Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating:
The title of this work alludes to the "triumphant hymn of praise", which unites the angels of heaven and the saints of earth, together with all of creation, in ecstatic worship of the Creator.
Composer: Janco, S. Arranger: Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
Tambourine, triangle, and wind chimes add sparkle to this compelling arrangement of a lesser-known hymn tune (DEN SIGNEDE DAG).
Composer: Traditional Arranger: Mallory, Ron Octaves: 3-6 Level: 3 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Medium
Written in the style of a toccata, this arrangement features long, sustained melodic notes over a busy accompaniment. After a brief chordal section the piece concludes with a joyous pealing of the bells. While it can be played by beginning groups, more advanced ringers can be challenged by using a faster tempo.
Composer: Hymn Tune Arranger: Hurlbutt, Patricia Octaves: 2-5 Level: 1+ Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
This hymn of commitment and consecration is sure to become a favorite. It has enough of a challenge to be satisfying but is accessible enough to put together quickly for those services where you have limited preparation time.
Composer: Scott, Clara Arranger: Eithun, Sandra Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: SoundForth Publications / Lorenz Co. Rating: Easy Medium
This hymn concertato on Holst's noble tune THAXTED provides two texts: one by Delores Dufner, OSB, for Pentecost/Confirmation, and Michael Perry's more familiar general text.
Composer: Holst, Gustav Arranger: Chepponis, James J. Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating:
This wonderful "Ebenezer" tune is arranged for bells and flute (both needed). The melody switches from the flute to the bells making the arrangement more interesting. Since this tune is still in most hymnals it should be well received by audience and players.
Composer: Williams Arranger: Pethel Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: Shawnee Press, Inc. Rating: Easy Medium
The hymn tune EBENEZER is set in 12/4 and marked "gently" throughout its' 38 measures.
Composer: Ebenezer Arranger: Hartley, A. Octaves: 3-4 Level: 3 Publisher: Thomas House /Descant /Gold Coast Music Rating: Medium
Varying in mood and ranging in difficulty from level 1 to 2, this collection of favorite hymns set for 12 bells and optional keyboard will become a "go-to" resource that your small or shorthanded ensemble can turn to time and again.
Composer: Various Arranger: Eithun, Sandra Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
General/Communion anthem for SATB voices, with keyboard accompaniment, 2 flutes and handbells (optional). Flute and handbell parts are included.
Composer: Danner, D. Arranger: Octaves: 3 Level: 1 Publisher: Hinshaw Music, Inc. Rating: Medium Advance
Pentecost is set for SATB choir, handbells and organ. Five bells (A4-G5) ring either randomly or in a chordal shake throughout the work until the final five measures. There they play a simple quarter-note pattern with whole notes above. Level one or even totally inexperienced bell ringers should be able to be involved in this special composition about the Spirit's coming. The Sarum plainsong, VENI CREATOR SPIRITUS is the basis of the text.
Composer: Hopson, H. Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating: Easy
Holy Spirit, Lord Divine, Come, from heights of heav'n and shine. begins the text of this simple plainsong accompanied by 2 octaves of bells (C5-F6) and tabor.
Composer: Arranger: Proulx, R. Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
Nine handbells in the 3 octave range provide the sole accompaniment in this setting of VENI SANCTE SPIRITUS.
Composer: Arranger: Palmer, N. Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
A lovely tune using an original text for Pentecost. Uses bells from A4 to B6, all written in the treble clef. Bell part in included in each octavo.
Composer: Kreutz Arranger: Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: Thomas House /Descant /Gold Coast Music Rating: Easy
May be used as preludes, hymn interludes or concert entrances. Each part contains a 2 measure pattern which is easily memorized. "Christ is Arisen; Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain; & O Sons and Daughters of the King."
Composer: Various Arranger: Semmann, B. Octaves: 4-5 Level: 1 Publisher: Concordia Publishing House Rating: Easy
Handbells (D5-E6) are called for in each of the 8 antiphons, usually in simple rhythm. These antiphons apply to Pentecost 9-17 in the 3-year lectionary series B.
Composer: Marcus, M. Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating: Easy
These settings of psalm antiphons or refrains, sung at the beginning, close and at intervals between verses, announce and then echo the spirit of the text. The texts given for Lutheran Book of Worship users are from LBW; the texts chosen for Lutheran Worship users are similarly reflective of the psalm text.
Composer: Marcus, M. Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: 2 Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating: Easy
Energy and joy abound in this original composition. While written for the Easter season, with its subtitle, "Rejoice in the Spirit," it is appropriate any time throughout the church year. The two compatible editions make this piece an excellent festival selection.
Composer: Moklebust, Cathy Octaves: 2-6 Level: 3 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Medium
An easy arrangement of the tune traditionally associated with this title. Chordal, some accidentals but easy to learn and ring. Fine for the beginning 3 octave choir.
Composer: Williams Arranger: Herbek, R. Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: National Handbell Music Rating: Easy
Here is the first in a series of collections for bell tree soloists with piano accompaniments. Set 1 features solos for spring seasons, and includes music for Lent, Easter, Pentecost, and general use.
Composer: Various Arranger: Moklebust, Cathy Octaves: 2-3 Level: NA Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
Celebrating the life of Kipp Willnauer, this upbeat piece (commissioned by Area 8 HMA and Kipp's friends and family) is based on a hymn that Kipp once arranged. His score is the basis for the first section. Solid Level 2, 3-6 octave scoring throughout includes all ringers as each variation explores new rhythms and ranges for the melody.
Composer: Various Arranger: Wissinger, Kathleen Octaves: 3-7 Level: 2 Publisher: ringTrue Rating: Easy
Six anthems reflecting the different seasons of the church year all include a part for 2 to 5 handbells (not octaves!). A nice way to integrate bells into a larger whole. The bells may be distributed to singing choir members, who can read off the score of their neighbor. Anthems included are for Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Palm Sunday, Easter and Pentecost.
Composer: Bedford, M. Arranger: Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
For accompanied SATB voices, opt. youth and congregation, Trumpet and handbells. Use for Thanksgiving and/or Pentecost. Quotes "Lasst Uns Erfreuen." (Have permission to copy HB pt).
Composer: Arranger: Liebergen Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: Alfred Handbell / Jubilate Music Group Rating: Easy
Ralph Vaughan Williams' poignant hymn tune receives a concert-level setting, evolving and developing through a wave of key changes and varied compositional styles.
Composer: Wissinger, Kathleen Octaves: 3-6 Level: 3+ Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Medium Advance
Free malleting of suspended bells opens this original work. Following the short introduction, a moderato section is characterized by a rich melody and solid rhythms.
Composer: Kerr, J. Wayne Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Medium
Fourteen bells ranging from C5 to D7 add additional accompaniment to this bouncy, Gonja folk song hymn-anthem with a vocal "vamp" and a text that begins: God sends us the Spirit to befriend and help us. Recreate and guide us, Spirit friend.
Composer: Natomah Arranger: Glover, R. Octaves: 3 Level: 1 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
Incorporating the hymns “Spirit of the Living God” and “Breathe on Me Breath of God,” this setting is an ideal offering for Pentecost, Communion or any time throughout the church year when the Holy Spirit is highlighted in worship.
Composer: Various Arranger: Eithun, Sandra Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy Medium
E5, B5, D6 and E6 are the four bells or chimes that add ethereal flavor to this prayerful anthem with a beginning text: "Spirit of God, descend upon my heart; wean it from earth."
Composer: Atkinson, F. C. Arranger: Ellingboe, B. Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: Neil A. Kjos Rating: Easy
Sandra Eithun's distinctive setting of MORECAMBE will lift the hearts of all who hear it. The captivating use of handchimes adds variety and depth for both ringers and congregations to enjoy.
Composer: Traditional Arranger: Eithun, Sandra Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
This is a reverent setting of the tune MORECAMBE. While much of the arrangement is reflective and meditative, it includes a section that crescendos with strength to a fortissimo. SOLO version: Uses 16 bells from Ab4 through C7. DUET or TRIO version: Duet uses 15 bells from C5 through C7; trio uses 22 bells from C4 through C7.
Composer: Atkinson, Frederick C. Arranger: Moklebust, Cathy Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy Medium
This powerful setting of the beloved hymn is a delight to ring and hear! Utilizing just 12 bells between F5 and C7, this selection is a perfect choice for the small or socially-distanced group.
Composer: Hymn Tune Arranger: Krug, Jason W. Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: Grassy Meadow Music Rating: Medium
This sensitive union of tunes, which suggests the hymns, "Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart," and "Breath on Me, Breath of God," is a versatile work that will find several uses during the church year.
Composer: Various Arranger: Edwards, Dan R. Octaves: 3 or 5 Level: 2 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
24 handbells, ranging from F4 to C7, ring throughout this introit hymn for Pentecost. Meter shifts from 7/8 to 4/4 and 3/4 add interest and pulse. The SK (shake) and toll swing techniques are used extensively throughout the bell score.
Composer: Lambillotte, Louis Arranger: Trapp, Lynn Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating:
Here’s a very easy-to-prepare arrangement of a popular gentle praise song that speaks of the constant presence of the Spirit, guiding our steps and enfolding our lives.
Composer: Iverson, Daniel & Alexander, Lowell Arranger: Wagner, Douglas E. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy
"Spirit Open My Heart" is a tender setting of the traditional Irish melody WILD MOUNTAIN THYME with a text by Ruth Duck. Being easy-to-learn, this piece would be excellent for working on phrasing and expressive elements with the choir.
Composer: Duck, Ruth Arranger: Fedak, Alfred V. Octaves: 4 Level: NA Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating:
As Pentecost comes 50 days after Easter, this piece has 50 measures, one for each day leading to the pouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and thus the founding of the Christian Church.
Composer: McMichael, Catherine Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Camelia Music Rating: Medium
The text and tune of this well-known praise song from the late 1970s gently carries the worshiper to a safe place of rest and peace, where the all-embracing love of God satisfies every need.
Composer: Wimber, John Arranger: Wagner, Douglas E. Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
Michael Glasgow’s “Spirit” trilogy continues with this joyful original piece, commissioned by Area 12 for their 2012 conference at the Disneyland Hotel.
Composer: Glasgow, Michael Octaves: 3-7 Level: 3 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Medium
The reproducible "Spring Ring!" collection, published in compatible 2-3 and 3-5 octave editions, is a valuable resource of accessible music for general and Lenten worship, Palm Sunday, concerts, and festivals.
Composer: Various Arranger: Waldrop, Tammy Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2- Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy Medium
Equally effective when offered in a contemporary or traditional worship setting, ringers will keep this highly musical arrangement in their notebooks for presentation on many occasions throughout the church year.
Composer: Green, Melody Arranger: Larson, Lloyd Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2+ Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
Written during Peter Scholtes's pastorate at St. Brendan's church on Chicago's South Side in the 1960s, this captivating folk hymn has enjoyed worldwide popularity ever since.
Composer: Scholtes, Peter Arranger: Akers, Michael E. Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
Psalm 118, 110 and 143 are included in this folio with handbell accompaniment to SATB voices. The first half of the settings finds the bells ringing in traditional accompaniment and the second in cluster chords.
Composer: Kosche, K. Arranger: Behnke, J. Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: Concordia Publishing House Rating: Easy
Handbells are called for on only one of the psalm settings. D5, E5, F#5, G5 and A5 only are used . There is a suggested singing plan for each psalm setting for unison choir, congregation and instrumental accompaniment.
Composer: Burkhardt, M. Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers Rating: Easy
This varied collection is the answer to all of your ensemble's musical needs for the time from Lent to Pentecost. Titles include "What Wondrous Love Is This"; "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded"; "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" (HAMBURG); "The King of Glory"; "He Is Risen" (a medley); "Crown Him Lord of All!"; and "Spirit of God".
Composer: Various Arranger: McChesney, Kevin Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
Techniques emphasize the rhythm and complement the melody.
Composer: Doane, W. Arranger: Dobrinski, C. Octaves: 2 Level: 2 Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Easy
Solid scoring and straightforward presentation of the popular tune.
Composer: Doane, W. Arranger: McChesney, K. Octaves: 3-5 Level: NA Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
Straight-forward writing combined with a ringing and malleting solo part produce the majesty this hymn by William Doane commands.
Composer: Doane, W. Arranger: Day, D. Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: National Handbell Music Rating: Easy
This setting of the favorite hymn tune begins with lots of "swinging" and gives the impression of tower bells calling the faithful to worship. As in other Littleton arrangements, liberty is taken with rhythmic accompaniments adding a freshness to the to the texture.
Composer: Doane, W. Arranger: Littleton, R. L. Octaves: 4-5 Level: 4 Publisher: Ringing Word Publications Rating: Medium Advance
Inspiring, stately, dignified yet playful, intensely rhythmic with flourish and pizzazz – these are all ways to describe this high-level work by Alex Guebert.
Composer: Guebert, Alex Octaves: 5-7 Level: 5 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Advance
This version of "Come, Holy Spirit" is for unison voices and handbells. It is chantlike in its feel, without a set meter.
Composer: Erickson, J. Arranger: Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
"Veni Creator Spiritus" is an invocation of the Holy Spirit for use during the feast of Pentecost. It is also used during the ordination of priests, the profession of members of religious institutes, administering the sacrament of Confirmation, the dedication of churches, and the convening of synods or councils.
Composer: Chant Mode VIII Arranger: Hall, Jefferey A. Octaves: 2-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Christian Interdenominational Resources Rating: Easy
This chant-like and flowing arrangement of "Vidi Aquam" may be used during Mass when the celebrant sprinkles the congregation with baptismal water from Easter Sunday until the feast of Pentecost.
Composer: 10th Century Chant Arranger: Hall, Jefferey A. Octaves: 2-5 Level: 1+ Publisher: Christian Interdenominational Resources Rating: Easy
2-3 octaves of handbells add optional accompaniment to this anthem expressing the anticipation of the Lord's return. Bells ring in half note and quarter-note chords for the majority of the work.
Composer: Chepponis, James Octaves: 2-3 Level: NA Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating:
Brian has created a fresh, exciting new arrangement of the favorite African-American spiritual "Every Time I Feel the Spirit" that will definitely inspire and lift the spirits of everyone! It begins with an optional opening that features singing bell, random suspended mallets, and an ethereal handchime LV passage with hints of the main tune appearing.
Composer: Traditional Spiritual Arranger: Childers, Brian Octaves: 4-7 Level: 4 Publisher: From the Top Music Rating: Medium Advance
Four handbells (D5, B5, G5 and A5) are the sole accompaniment to this Pentecost introit. The antiphon is "Canticle of Creation" and the Biblical reference is John 3:8.
Composer: Proulx, R. Octaves: 2 Level: 2 Publisher: Art Masters Studio, Inc. Rating: Easy
"You Make All Things New" is a musical proclamation of new life and renewal from the book of Ezekiel.
Composer: Haas, D. Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
"You Will Draw Water" is a canticle for cantor, congregation, handbells (6 bells used) and choir ad lib. This work would be an excellent fit for liturgical congretations especially.
Composer: Batastini, R. Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy