Review:      If you’re looking for a solid Level 3 piece that highlights the intrinsic beauty of handbells, this is it! A heartfelt exploration of the lovely hymn “When The Morning Stars Together” (WEISSE FLAGGEN), the 1st verse is light and “twinkly” with the 2nd verse gathering strength through four key changes. Optional Hand Chimes and a small part for 3 or 5 oct. alternate bells or Bell Tree add to the magic.

NEW!! Introducing LARGE PRINT editions from ringTrue for treble clef and bass clef that invite ringers with vision challenges to participate with confidence! These score are 150% (normal ringTrue scores are 115-120%). Each individual score is available in hard copy format or as an individual score Digital Direct license (you buy the rights to download a single score directly to your printer). All 3 scores are also available in a 24-page reproducible packet in either hard copy format or as a Digital Site License (RE8043CTBR – Choir (regular size), and Large Print Treble and Bass scores). All scores include full-color covers. The small Bell Tree score is available as a free download from handbellworld.com. The Large Print scores make it especially attractive for Conference and Festival use to include ringers with sight challenges. The Massed director would direct from the Choir score. And because both hard copy and digital copy of each individual score are available as well as a reproducible full choir scores packet, individual ringers and full choirs alike may buy a score that suits them perfectly.

This hymn tune’s two most popular sacred texts are “When the Morning Stars Together” and “Son of God, Eternal Savior,” as well as at least 7 more, so the score may be used in general worship and throughout the liturgical year: All Saints Day, Earth Day, Lent, Remembrance, Memorial, Epiphany, Music Sunday, Dedication, Commissioning, and well as for concert and festival.

Fully scored for 3 to 7 octaves, Morning Stars also incorporates optional alternate bells or a Bell Tree solo (which requires an additional bell set) in select melodic sections - easily learned. The opening LV arpeggios and light mart lifts create an rich aura, settling into an unrushed alternating-interval bass for the clear twinkling melody to shine from above. Set in 4/4 meter with an occasional 2/4 measure, the music reflects the original pulse of the hymn. One option for 5+ oct. groups is to play just the top melody note (in the 7s) in the opening sequence to make it really sparkle. Light mart lifts add to the ethereal feel. In the 2nd verse opens with just chimes, then chimes supporting bells on a high embellished melody line. Parts are carefully assigned in this complex little section, making it easier for ringers to cleanly play their parts. The entire presentation is pure magic, showcasing iconic handbell voicings with mystical LVs, isolated melodies that soar high above and bold chords that add weight and purpose.

Starting in the key of G then moving on through Eb, Bb, D and F in the 2nd verse, clever key changes connect each line and give a feeling of direction and urgency, with a rhythmic bass chord pattern and bells/chimes down to 7 octaves celebrating at the end.

Commissioned to honor Carol Lown for 37 years directing the Massanutten Ringers, “Morning Stars” brightens worship, concert and festival. Carol and her ringers helped hone the final drafts during their rehearsals, which was a unique pleasure for the composer!! Demo recording by Massanutten Ringers, Massanutten Presbyterian Church, Carol Lown director, 2025.

Part of the True Music “Encore” series from ringTrue, featuring well-crafted music for concerts, festivals and worship.

Belltree Part:

Published by: ringTrue

 Part of the Series: True Music, Encore!!
(ringTrue)

Composer: hymn tune	Arranger: Wissinger, Kathleen	Octaves: 3-7	Level: 3	Rating: Medium	Copyright: Varies by Piece
Season: Epiphany , Lent , All Saints/Souls Day , All Year
Classification: Bell Tree , Church or Concert , Hymn Tune , Instrument Part , Large Notes (Print) , Memorial Service , Reproducible
Technique: Mallet , Martellato Lift , Sk (Shake) , vib. (Vibrato) , LV (Let Vibrate) , Damp Sign
Voicing: Handbells, No Choral
Instrument: Chimes(Choirchimes or Handchimes) , Bell Tree
Bells Used: Three Octaves: 37 Bells; Four Octaves: 49 Bells; Five Octaves: 57 Bells; Six Octaves: 61 Bells; Seven Octaves: 67 Bells