This version of "Yankee Doodle" is a lively solo requiring extensive use of mallets. An optional bell tree is also suggested.
Composer: Traditional Arranger: Anderson, Christine D./Wagner, Douglas E. Octaves: 4 Level: NA Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Medium
Written for the Reconciling Congregation Program's National Convocation, this setting is of the hymn, "The Year of Jubilee is Come!". The hymn text is included for optional SATB choir and/or congregation to sing along.
Composer: Edson, L. Arranger: Wiltse, C. Octaves: 4-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Stained Glass Music Co. Rating: Easy
“Ye Banks and Braes”, also known as “The Banks O’Doon” (a river in Scotland), is a poem written in 1791 by Robert Burns, who then set the lyrics to a Scottish air called “The Caledonian Hunt’s Delight”. The tune has been nicely arranged for 8 bells and is accessible for Level 2 ringers.
Composer: Scottish Melody Arranger: Lewis, Blanche Marie Octaves: 2 Level: 2- Publisher: From the Top Music Rating: Easy
A separate percussion score with parts for maracas, claves, and guiro is available to enhance the handbell arrangement of this tune composed by Alan and Marilyn Bergman and Norman Luboff. The arranger has also "peppered" up the score with lots of fun special techniques.
Composer: Downey, Gail Octaves: 5 Level: 3+ Publisher: From the Top Music Rating: Medium Advance
The Yellow River or the Huang He is the third-longest river in Asia, and also the sixth-longest in the world at the estimated length of 5,464 km (3,395 mi). The Yellow River is also known as "the cradle of the Chinese civilization", because its basin was the birthplace of ancient Chinese civilization, and it was the most prosperous region in early Chinese history.
Composer: Xian Xing Hai Arranger: Ko, Kevin Mazimas Octaves: 4-6 Level: 3+ Publisher: Asia International Handbell Association (Hong Kong) Rating: Medium
This short setting of a traditional French carol provides peace and joy for the Advent/Christmas season.
Composer: Arranger: Bacon, E. Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: Oxford University Press Rating:
Ringers of all ages will have fun putting together this cleverly conceived medley of children's hymn tunes.
Composer: Various Arranger: Akers, Michael E. Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: Lorenz Corp. Rating: Easy Medium
This timeless classic from the Beatles is one of the most recorded tunes of all time, and it's easy to understand why with this arrangement from the Handbells ROCK! series.
Composer: Lennon, John & McCartney, Paul Arranger: Roth, Karen Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Jeffers Publishing Rating: Easy Medium
Yesu Ananipenda means “Jesus loves me” in Swahili, and is a joyful, upbeat original composition, which also includes the beloved Sunday School song, “Jesus Loves Me” by William Bradbury. This African-flavored piece will be uplifting and fun to play and to hear, with its varied rhythmic patterns, the use of many handbell techniques and African percussion instruments.
Composer: Bradbury, William B. Arranger: Moklebust, Cathy Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3+ Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Medium
This praise and worship favorite, made popular by CityAlight, is one of the most widely used contemporary worship songs in recent memory. Linda Lamb now brings it to handbells with this lovely setting for 3-5 octaves with optional handchimes.
Composer: Robinson, Jonny; Farren, Michael; and Thompson, Rich Arranger: Lamb, Linda Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Ring Praise Publications Rating: Easy Medium
This choral setting of a text by Fanny Crosby is useful for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Lent. It is for accompanied SATB voices.
Composer: Crosby, F. Arranger: Shafer, L. Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: Alfred Handbell / Jubilate Music Group Rating: Easy
"Yet Will I Praise Thee" is chordal in nature and includes much use of contemporary, dissonant harmonies.
Composer: Wiltse, C. Arranger: Octaves: 3-5 Level: NA Publisher: Hinshaw Handbell Series Rating: Medium
This Austrian folk tune jumps between treble only and regular treble/bass. It is a delightful tune arranged for 2 octaves of bells or chimes, and each verse or refrain is marked in the music.
Composer: Austrian folk tune Arranger: Barker, David Octaves: 2 Level: NA Publisher: Mayola Music, Ltd. Rating: Easy Medium
With a ballad-like melody and soft harmonies, this arrangement by Kevin McChesney of Barbara Werner's original song is perfect for a wedding, concert or worship service.
Composer: Werner, Barbara Arranger: McChesney, Kevin Octaves: 4-5 Level: 3+ Publisher: Jeffers Publishing Rating: Medium
The traditional Spanish melody "Solo Tu Eres Santo" provides the option of incorporating 8 handchimes (upper 2 octave range), flute (or other C Instrument) and guitar.
Composer: Traditional Spanish Melody Arranger: Sylvester, Susan (Nelson) Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Ring Out Press Rating: Easy Medium
"You are God: we raise you. You are the Lord: we acclaim you." These words are the opening text of this Ambrosian chant in unison accompanied by a 5-note handbell carillon (freely rung).
Composer: Arranger: Proulx, R. Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy
Sondra Tucker takes this popular, contemporary hymn by David Haas and brings us a masterful arrangement.
Composer: Haas, David Arranger: Tucker, Sondra K. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Medium
With a text based on Psalm 46:10, Isaiah 43:1 and John 14:27 this popular David Haas song has quickly risen to the top as one of the most important hymn contributions of the last decade. The scripturally rich words, sung in the first person as though by God, are filled with hope and assurance, making this useful for general worship, discipleship, confirmation, baptism and many other occasions.
Composer: Haas, David Arranger: Hayes, Mark & Thompson, Martha Lynn Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Medium
Optional flute or C instrument adds flavor to this setting of the contemporary Christian tune by Dennis Jernigan. Cue notes are provided for the bells to ring th flute part if the instrumentalist is unavailable.
Composer: Jernigan, Dennis Arranger: Ingram, Bill Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Ringing Word Publications Rating: Medium
This piece is a lovely setting from Patricia Cota of Dennis Jernigan's melody "You Are My All in All".
Composer: Jernigan, Dennis Arranger: Cota, Patricia Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3- Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Easy Medium
Bill Ingram's easy setting of this worship song by Dennis L. Jernigan uses handbells and optional handchimes.
Composer: Jernigan, Dennis Arranger: Ingram, Bill Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Ring Praise Publications Rating: Medium
The confidence and beauty of Michael Ledner's original worship song is captured in this lovely arrangement.
Composer: Ledner, Michael Arranger: Waldrop, Tammy & Stewart, Kevin Octaves: 3 or 5 Level: 2 Publisher: Alfred Handbell / Jubilate Music Group Rating: Easy Medium
Appropriate for the Lent/Easter season, communion, or general use, this popular praise and worship song reminds us of the forgiveness of our sins through Christ's death on the cross.
Composer: Foote, Billy James Arranger: Bettcher, Peggy Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3- Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Medium
"Fresh and green are the pastures where you give me repose." This text from Psalm 23, The Grail, opens this warm, legato piece with a separate score for 20 handbells. The music is descriptive of this Psalm and the handbells lend their own special flavor.
Composer: Haas, D. Arranger: Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy Medium
Handbells within the three octave range appear in the first and last phrase of this original work for unison, 2 or 3 part treble or mixed voices with keyboard, optional congregation, and optional instruments (guitar, bass guitar, handbells and percussion).
Composer: Jothen, M. Arranger: Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
The gentle melody of this handbell adaptation of Ron Mallory's choral work of the same name expresses Psalm 139's assurance that God is with us in all circumstances.
Composer: Mallory, Ron Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Paraboloid Press Rating: Medium
The strong and confident melody of this Italian carol tune is set in 4/4 with an ABA form that corresponds to the major keys C-Db-C. The B section melody calls for Db4 to Gb5 optional chimes. Lots of character markings aid in musicality preparation.
Composer: Italian Carol Arranger: Merrett, F. Octaves: 3 Level: 3+ Publisher: Green Rose Press, Inc. Rating: Medium
The use of consonant 3rds and 6ths enhance the folk quality of this wonderful Italian carol.
Composer: Italian Carol Arranger: Merrett, Fred A. Octaves: 3 Level: 3+ Publisher: Flagstaff Publishing Rating: Medium
Easy rhythm patterns with some eighth-note movement make this piece an ideal way for novice ringers to accompany a larger work. Three octaves are needed and are called on to ring the entire piece. The text begins, "You have put on Christ, in Him you have been baptized! Alleluia! Alleluia!".
Composer: Waddell, C. Arranger: Schneider-Kirner, K. Octaves: 3 Level: 2 Publisher: World Library Publications Rating: Easy
This piece will find many uses when added to your repertoire. From the Broadway musical "Carousel", the title is a favorite among many. This handbell version has been arranged for 3 octaves with only 4 notes used from the upper part of the 4th octave.
Composer: Hammerstein, R./Rodgers, R. Arranger: Wagner, D. Octaves: 3-4 Level: NA Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Medium
Five handbells ranging from C5 to C6 play in quarter note rhythms in 2/4 time and have their own score included in the back of the choral anthem. Two sets of text are given, the first beginning "You, Lord, we praise in songs of celebrations for this feast of our salvation". This is a great opportunity to involve novice bell or chime ringers in a larger work.
Composer: Walter, J. Arranger: Proulx, R. Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: Concordia Publishing House 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
This inspirational setting of the hit song made popular by Josh Groban is here arranged for the first time for handbells.
Composer: Lovland, Rolf and Graham, Brendan Arranger: Eithun, Sandra Octaves: 3-6 Level: 3 Publisher: Alfred Handbell / Jubilate Music Group Rating: Medium
This inspirational song was based on a traditional Irish tune and first appeared as an instrumental piece on the Secret Garden album "Once in a Red Moon."
Composer: Graham, Brendan & Lovland, Rolf Arranger: Raney, Joel Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2+ Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Easy Medium
This beloved crossover tune has been set here for handbells and piano. The handbell parts are accessible at Level 2, and the piano part helps to broaden the harmony.
Composer: Lovland, Rolf Arranger: Raney, Joel Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Easy Medium
Part of the Nancy Jessup Handbell Series, this duet for bells and voice or flute with keyboard, takes its title from the vocal lyric: "You're my wing! Fly me up to the heights above." Separate parts for bells, voice, and flute are included along with the master score and program and bio notes.
Composer: Ko, Kevin Mazimas Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: National Handbell Music Rating:
"You're My Wing" was written in 2001, originally composed for a solo voice with piano accompaniment. In 2003, the piece was rearranged for a female voice choir. Later, the handbell solo part with a flute playing a melody was added. However, only the original words of the piece can tell the true story.
Composer: Ko, Kevin Mazimas Octaves: 4-5 Level: 3 Publisher: Asia International Handbell Association (Hong Kong) Rating: Medium
Bring out your mallets for this exciting piece!
Composer: Ruis, D. Arranger: Bettcher, P. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3- Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Medium
"Your Spirit, God, moves us to pray for children in the world today" so begins the text fo this anthem, which incorporates an optional bell score for 17 bells from C5 to G6. A quarter-note rhythm is the norm, with some accidentals that will require bell changes. Other features of the anthem include an optional descant and congregation.
Composer: Horman, J. Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: 2+ Publisher: Thorpe Music Publishing Co. Rating: Easy Medium
The text is from Psalm 119:89-93 and the antiphon is Psalm 119:111. This piece is useful for confirmation, Reformation, or general use.
Composer: Geischen Arranger: Octaves: 2 Level: 1 Publisher: Concordia Publishing House Rating: Easy
An original melody that emboldens the spirit, this gentle and beautiful work is ideal for preludes and offertories.
Composer: Clemmitt, Richard Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2 Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc. Rating: Easy Medium
The beloved classic from the ever-popular movie Toy Story comes to handbells in this sparkling arrangement by Bob Burroughs. There is plenty of action for all ringers, and it might take a little extra work, but it will be well worth it when you delight the audience at your next concert.
Composer: Newman, Randy Arranger: Burroughs, Bob Octaves: 5 Level: 4- Publisher: Red River Music Rating: Medium Advance
"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
There are delightful contrasts of mood and tempo in this folk song arrangement for bells.
Composer: Yugoslav Arranger: Merrett, Fred A. Octaves: 2 Level: 3 Publisher: Flagstaff Publishing Rating: Medium
A fun time is in store for quartets who ring this medley of "Deck the Halls, Jingle Bells, Jolly Old St. Nicholas" and "Up on the Housetop". This is a nice, clean score with performance notes written into the music.
Composer: Various Arranger: Helman, M. Octaves: 3 Level: NA Publisher: AGEHR Publishing Rating: Easy Medium
Celebrate the Christmas season with this rhythmic and happy medley of "Jingle Bells," "Deck the Halls," and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas."
Composer: Various Arranger: Morris, H. Octaves: 3-4 Level: 3 Publisher: Ringing Word Publications Rating: Medium
Have fun ringing this medley of "Up on the Housetop, Deck the Halls, Jolly Old St. Nicholas, Here We Come A-Wassailing." This piece is ideal for fellowship, mall concerts, etc.
Composer: Various Arranger: McKlveen, P. Octaves: 2-3 Level: 2 Publisher: Jeffers Publishing Rating: Easy
Lively mallets and thumb damps bring to life the delightful traditional children's song about Zacchaeus, the man who climbed up into the sycamore tree.
Composer: Traditional Arranger: Eithun, Sandra Octaves: 3-5 Level: 2 Publisher: Choristers Guild Rating: Easy
This popular Bible story is put to music with optional lyrics for singing along and optional percussion effects, making this great for a children's bell choir.
Composer: Thompson, Karen Octaves: 2-3 Level: 1 Publisher: AGEHR Publishing Rating: Easy
This lively original Spanish dance is super fun to play with a catchy tune that engages all of your ringers! With mallet rolls, thumb damps, and shakes, it features wonderful opportunities for handbell choreography.
Composer: Axelson, Gloria Octaves: 3-5 Level: 3 Publisher: AGEHR Publishing Rating: Medium
"Ezekiel Saw the Wheel" and "I Got Shoes" are skillfully arranged for show and fun! Use tap dancer or tap shoes as percussion. Techniques include SK, Mallet, TD, PL, RT.
Composer: Various Arranger: Morris, H. Octaves: 3-5 Level: 5+ Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Advance
Here is a fun, original composition tailored for the developing choir. Ringers will have a blast learning the varied stopped techniques, and audiences and congregations will be humming the tune long after the performance.
Composer: Austin, Brenda E. Octaves: 2-5 Level: 1+ Publisher: Hope Publishing Co. Rating: Easy
This delightful piece, based on a Czech Folk dance, features a Bb Clarinet with the bells. There is a surprise cadenza played by the clarinet near the end.
Composer: Arranger: Warzyn, J. Octaves: 4 Level: NA Publisher: Robert Groth Publications Rating: Easy Medium
Albeniz is known for his colorful piano settings of the dances of Spain. This particular piece is especially suited for handbells.
Composer: Albeniz, Isaac Arranger: Luethi, Gerry Octaves: 5 Level: 5 Publisher: Flagstaff Publishing Rating: Advance