All Creatures of Our God and King

This is a 2 octave arrangement of the hymn tune which treats the first stanza chordally and the 2nd stanza contrapuntally.

All the Pretty Little Horses

This title is a rhythmically easy chordal arrangement of a Southern US folk song. No special techniques are required.

Amazing Grace

Three octaves of chimes combine with a full five octaves of handbells to present the early American melody from Virginia Harmony.

And On the Third Day He Rose

This original composition is a joyous description of the resurrection with big chords and a lot of movement.

And The Trees Do Moan

"And the Trees Do Moan" is a harmonically intriguing arrangement of a Southern Mountain Folk Song.

Angel Gabriel, The

This modal tune is presented as a quiet arrangement in compound meter which changes from 6 to 9 throughout.

Annie Laurie

Both 4 octaves of handchimes and 5 octaves of bells are required to play this flowing setting of the folk song by Lady John Scott. Chimes can be read off the bell score, or there is a separate chime score available as well.

Ash Grove

This arrangement contains three stanzas of the familiar Welsh folk tune/hymn, also known as “Let All Things Now Living”.

Awake My Soul

Interesting melodies, harmonies and construction comprise this original composition.

Away in a Manger

Using a simple arpeggio figure and runs, this simple arrangement ends quietly in octaves.

Beautiful Treasures of Heaven, The

This is a clear, straightforward arrangement of a Shaker tune in g minor. The solely 3 octave version is item # SGM3882, and the 3-5 octave version of this title is item # SGM140. The 3-5 octave version was arranged in 2002.

Bell Fanfare

At 14 measures in length, "Bell Fanfare No. 1" may be used as a Call to Worship or any time a short interlude of music is needed.

Bell Fanfare No 2

This title is a short, useful fanfare for 5 octaves. Only 27 measures, note values do not drop below the quarter note. Any difficulty in this piece would come with the tempo marking, which is 120 to the quarter note.

Bell Tango

"Bell Tango" is a fiery Carl Wiltse original with lots of work for the bass ringers and many chromatics for everyone else.

Carol of the Bells

Easily learned, this arrangement of the traditional Ukrainian carol can be memorized by the bell tree ringer, who can then process as she/he plays.

Carol of the Birds

Arranged by Carl Wiltse, this French carol, harmonized with numerous open chords, moves simply and quietly from start to finish.

Carols for Ringing and Singing

The six standard Christmas carols contained in this collection can be used either as short handbell pieces or as accompaniments for congregational/audience singing. Titles include: "O Come, All Ye Faithful; Good King Wenceslas; God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen; Hark! The Herald Angels Sing; In the Bleak Midwinter; and Silent Night."

Catalonian Carol of the Birds

The unexpected harmonic progressions combined with the simplicity and transparancy of the music creates a relaxed and charming piece.

Celebrations

An original composition for two, 5-octave bell choirs commissioned for several celebrations in a Grand Rapids, Michigan Congregational Church. As one might expect the music is treated antiphonally and placing one choir in the balcony or at a distance from the first choir will add to the effect. The music is bright and stately with fresh harmonies thrown in along the way. In one section a syncopated pattern of eighth-quarter-eighth dominates one choir while the other rings the melody in octaves.

Changes

Based on "Plain Hunt" change ringing. Performance notes: "As an alternate means of performing this piece, during the first half.., the bass clef ringers can do the "Cross and Stretch" pattern of change ringing...

Children of the Heavenly Father

Two octaves of optional chimes plus C instruments add a sweetness to this Swedish melody, well-loved by children.

Christmas in England

A full five octaves of handbells as well as 4-5 octaves of chimes are needed to perform this setting of the English carols, "Puer Nobis", "Coventry Carol," and "Gloucestershire Wassail." Special techniques as well as fresh harmonies help paint the picture of the English countryside, blanketed in snow, with the sound of carolers at your door. 151 measures in length.

Christ the Lord is Risen Today

An accompaniment for congregation singing "LYRA DAVIDICA".

Coventry Carol

A fine arrangement with interesting harmonies.

Coventry Carol

A separate score for each of the 5 ringer parts plus a full score where a keyboard may play along, if desired, is included in this folio of the favorite 16th-century English carol.

Coventry Carol

Carol Feather Martin has taken Carl Wiltse's original arrangement of this English carol and adapted it for handbell sextet.

Dedication Fanfare

Composer Carl Wiltse's special flavor of harmony and compositional technique are evident in this original work written for the 2003 Bay View Week of Handbells. Bells and organ combine in chromatic and dramatic passages throughout the 38 measures of the piece.

Deep River

A rather straightforward chordal arrangement of the still popular spiritual, this piece includes several ties (though not generally across the bar line) that ringers must be aware of.

Drunken Sailor

What shall we do with the drunken sailor? Why, make him play bells, of course! This arrangement of the famous sea chantey includes lots of opportunities for comedy from ringers and director alike.

Ellers

"Ellers" is an arrangement of the tune traditionally associated with the hymn "Savior, Again to Thy Dear Name". Big resonant chords in the bass add to the lovely tune.

Embellish Suite

The four movements of this highly-chromatic, original work are entitled: "Fanfare", "Treble Chorale and Variations", "Bass Bell Boogie" and "Scale Mutations"-subtitled "How to get from the key of C to Bb the long way." Challenge your ringers with this one.

Everlasting Hills, The

Though gentle in nature, this work will require some moving around and changing bells with the chromatic harmonies. It is a good project piece for summer or holidays when the bell choir has a few ringers out on trips.

Faithful Shepherd, The

Gentle, calm, sweet, comforting and content are all words that describe the mood of this original composition.

Fanfare on Angels From the Realms of Glory

This fanfare on the well-known French carol begins and ends with traditional LVed scale-wise passages. Please note that this fanfare is based on the tune more commonly associated with the title "Angels We Have Heard on High".

Father James's Song

A delightful arrangement of an unfamiliar tune. Very useful.

Friendly Beasts, The

The old French carol is simply arranged using whole, half and quarter notes. Ideal for the beginning choir.

Gaudete

Written for the group Embellish this setting from Piae Cantiones (1582) is in shifting meter (mostly 3/2 to 2/2) and contrasting dynamic levels. Throughout the piece the plainchant-type melody is presented in octaves and then repeated with the octaves being filled in to make chords.Though not included, adding a oboe or reed instrument to the melody line would enhance this selections character.

God's Truth Abideth Still

"Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also; the body they may kill; God's truth abideth still; His kingdom is forever." So goes the final verse of Martin Luther's "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" upon which this arrangement is based. A grand fanfare opens the work and proceeds to a full rendering of the tune. A slower section showcases 3 octaves of handchimes before returning to the original tempo for the ending in measure 91.

God the Omnipotent

This stately Russian hymn begins with a fanfare of all parts that leads into a hymn-like setting of the tune. The next verse calls for the keyboard and trumpet on melody while the bells contribute a running, eighth-note accompaniment.

God the Omnipotent

This stately Russian hymn begins with a fanfare of all parts that leads into a hymn-like setting of the tune. The next verse calls for the keyboard and trumpet on melody while the bells contribute a running, eighth-note accompaniment.

Gospel Praise God

DUKE STREET hymn tune in African-American gospel style is what this arrangement is all about. Lots of "cool" bass lines, swinging rhythms and special effects with techniques. A fresh way to enliven an old hymn favorite.

Grandfather's Clock

"Grandfather's Clock" is a good beginning piece using mallets and mallet-handle clicks. Everybody gets to mallet at some point in the piece. Very few bell changes make this one easy to learn and fun to play.

Greensleeves

An interesting arrangement of the traditional melody.

Handbell Madrigals

The 4 delightful English madrigals and in this collection are: "Now is the Merry Month of May (Morley); The Silver Swan (Gibbons); In These Delightful Pleasant Groves (Purcell); & O Eyes of My Beloved (di Lasso)."

Holy God We Praise Your Name

"Grosser Gott" from the "Katholisches Gesangbuch" is the hymn tune this arrangement is based upon. Another text title with this tune is "Own the Mystery." An extended, ethereal opening section gives way to a chordal texture of "tall" chords and simple rhythms. Optional 3-4 octaves of choir chimes are scored for the melody later in the work.

How Firm a Foundation

March-like accompaniment opens this setting of the American folk hymn, FOUNDATION. Later on the bass ringers get a go at the melody with half-note chordal texture above.

Huron Carol, The

American Indian carol. Several bell techniques used.

Immortal Invisible

Commissioned in celebration of a Director's ministry in music, this festive piece for handbells and organ is triumphant, energetic and keeps all ringers involved. Optional handchimes add contrast in a middle section.

Infant Holy Infant Lowly

For the 5 octave choir seeking a "quick" Christmas number this music is ideal.

Interlude

Ideal for that spot in the service where a short selection is needed.

It Is Well with My Soul

The reflective nature of this arrangement of Philip P. Bliss' original tune is accomplished through flowing accompaniments, tender harmonies, and expressive dynamics. The ending itself requires a triple piano dynamic. Some bell changes are required. 87 measures.

Jingle Bells

This is a rhythmically easy and simple arrangement of Pierpont's tune.

Joyous Passacaglia

Appropriately named! The most difficult part of this selection is changing from 3/4 to 6/8 on the last 2 pages.

Just As I Am

"Just As I Am" is a useful arrangement of the familiar hymn tune WOODWORTH, taking the listener through the various moods of the text (provided), and incorporating an original melody as well.

Let All Mortal Flesh

An arrangement of the familiar tune with optional solo or unison melody line.

Let Us Break Bread Together

An arrangement of the traditional spiritual which uses colorful harmonies in the second stanza.

Let Us with a Gladsome Mind

The Moravian hymn melody, MONKLAND, is here set against both staccato and legato accompaniment. Here ringers will find challenge in the rapid movement of the eighth-note lines.

L'homme Arme

Carl Wiltsse writes,"'L'homme Arme' uses a tune that I first heard sung by the Christmas Revels in Boston, and more recently in 'The Armed Man' by Karl Jenkins." It was used as a processional for the 2011 Bay View Week of Handbells, with measures 1-44 repeated until all ringers were in place."

Life's Railway to Heaven

Commissioned to honor a 50th wedding anniversary, this old gospel tune by Charlie D. Tillman receives fresh treatment from the arranger's hand. Dotted rhythms prevail supported by smoothly flowing accompaniment.

Lo How a Rose

Accompanied by gentle arpeggiated chords in the treble bells and strong, whole note chords in the bass, the trumpet soars above in plaintive melody. However, cue notes are provided when the notes "soar" above the novice trumpet players range.

Lo How a Rose E'er Blooming

A straightforward, chordal arrangement of the 16th Century melody. Ideal for Advent.

Love Came Down at Christmas

This arrangement of the traditional Irish melody has distinct sections, which make it ideal for using as a hymn introduction with interludes between the stanzas and a coda.

Lullaby Jezu

The less experienced 4 octave choir will find this arrangement attractive because of the simple rhythms and chordal nature.

Lyric Piece

"Lyric Piece" is just that--lyrical! Flowing 16th note accompaniment supports an expressive melody in 6/8 meter at a tempo of 8th note = 120. Mallets on tabled bells punctuate the texture in the middle section for contrast.

Margie's Silent Night

Specifically designed to be played entirely on 5 octaves chimes and violin, this precious setting of "Silent Night" is in memory of Margie York, who was owner of B & Y Music Company for many years.

Midnight Clear

Interesting harmonies and large chords make this a grand Christmas selection. There are accidentals, a modulation and several tempo changes which challenge the bell choir.

Midnight Clear

Richard Storrs Willis beloved title is here set by Carl Wiltse in his unique style. Fresh harmonies are combined with tehuto rhythmic interpretations. A key change from C major to Ab major comes about mid-way through. The ending is big and full. 78 measures in length.

Mighty Fortress, A

This arrangement is chordal with meter changes. Fresh harmonic structure in sections.

Miracle of the Bells

For double handbell choir, using one three octave set of bells.

Morning Has Broken

In this arrangement, the old hymn tune is arranged for handbells and clarinet.

Now Thank We All Our God

A chordal arrangement of this grand tune.

O Come O Come Emmanuel

Commissioned by The Raleigh Ringers, this 15th century French advent carol is both mystical and practical. Although written in cut time, this piece is easy to learn with a predominately chordal structure. A continuing lower register drone supports the melody overhead.

Of the Father's Love

A 5 octave arrangement of the familiar 13th century plainsong.

O Little One Sweet

Quarter and half notes (several dotted quarter/8th note patterns) used throughout. Perfect for beginning groups.

O Little Town of Bethlehem

Introduction - traditional 1st stanza and nice harmony on 2nd stanza.

Our Gifts We Bring

Modal and filled with harmonic surprises. All bells of the 4 octaves are used.

Our Mourning Has Become Dancing

A full set of 3-5 octave chimes are essential in this original, commissioned composition. The smooth, middle chime section is contrasted by peppy dotted rhythms in the enveloping bell sections. Challenge is offered by rhythms, harmonic changes, and meter shifts.

Ours the Journey

"Ours the Journey" concerns "furthering the cause of justice". The melody is stacked above tall chords throughout.

Pax

This Carl Wiltse original for 5-6 octaves includes an optional solo of "Dona Nobis Pacem" for voice(s) or instrument in C or B-flat (parts included).

People Look East

Although there are a few key changes and alternate harmonies, this is a rather straight-forward setting of the French advent carol. An open spacing keeps the music light and airy and lilting along in 6/8 time.

Praise We The Lord

A festive arrangement of a French folk tune.

Puer Nobis

An easy arrangement of a tune (Piae Cantiones) from the 16th century.

Ring We All Noel

Great arrangement for the 2 octave choir. Uses mallets. Linear writing. Easy to learn.

Salem

"Dossey's Choice" is the Southern Harmony tune used in this arrangement. The use of the plucking technique in the center section adds interest to this easy arrangement.

Service Music for Handbells

3 Calls to Worship and 3 Prayer responses, each 1 page and all varying in style and mood.

Shaker Dance

The 19th-century Shaker tune, most commonly paired with the text, ''Tis a Gift to Be Simple," is the basis of this arrangement. The lilting melody appears in upper, middle, and lower ranges. The textures build throughout the work from light and open to a full and busy finish.

Silent Night

A grand arrangement of this Christmas favorite. Harmonically very close to that in the hymnal.

Simple Gifts

Begins with arpeggios but builds to big chords. Ends quietly.

Sleep of the Child Jesus, The

A fine arrangement of the beautiful French carol. Requires control to obtain a quiet mood.

Song of St. Matthias

Fortissimo, an up-beat tempo, dissonance and strong, full texture sets the intensity of this original composition at once.

Steal Away

An interesting arrangement of the spiritual.

Sussex Mummers' Carol

The carol from Horsham, Sussex in England is here set for 4,5 or 6 octaves of bells. It begins simply with the melody and is soon joined by a second line in imitation. This leads to a chordal rendition. These two textures take turns until a slower, full chordal section ends the work.

Sweet Betsy from Pike

This folk song arrangement is ideal for beginning groups because of simple rhythm and chordal structure.

Tallis Canon

The canon theme is stated several times before it is played as a round. Final statement is in unison with all three octaves.

Tempus Adest Floridum

An arrangement of the tune associated with "Gentle Mary Laid Her Child" using only quarter and half notes.

There Is a Green Hill Far Away

Carl Wiltse write, "'There Is a Green Hill Far Away' was written for a beginning handbell choir that I direct. It was meant to be played during Lent, but ended up being played at the beginning of Easter morning service."

Three Christmas Carols

The carols,arranged individually, are "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly; A 15th Century French Carol; and O Come All Ye Faithful" .

Three Easy Pieces

Ideal beginning music, only whole half and quarter notes used. The 3 tunes included are: "Au Clair de la Lune; Go Tell Aunt Rhody; & Jingle Bells."

Three Etudes for Chimes or Beginning Handbells

For the beginning group. Short. Only quarter, half, dotted half and whole notes used.

Three Impressions on This is My Father's World

The three impressions in this folio are titled: All Nature Sings, The Birds Their Carols Raise and O Let Me Never Forget. The second selection begins with chimes imitating bird song. Ringers and listeners should find this an effective, fresh rendering of the old hymn.

Two Fanfares and Interlude

Two Simple Hymns

Two hymn tunes here set for two-octaves. The first tune is set in chordal texture with only the C's making a bell change. The second tune is the same as the first with the exception of a chromatic ending that will take some work for this skill level.

Variations on a Mood (Scenes of Lake Superior)

The awesomeness, the calmness, the constant movement, the gentle ripples, the atmosphere and dignity of Lake Superior is musically painted for the listener in this original work calling for 5-6 octaves of bells and 8 chimes in the upper 4-octave range.

We Shall Meet When Day Is Over

Written in memory of a beloved ringer, this medley includes the tunes "Now the Day Is Over" and "God Be with You Till We Meet Again." The optional woodwind solo adds pathos and depth to the flowing score.

What Does the Lord Require

Based on inspiration from Micah 6:8 (What does the Lord require of you? Justice, kindness, walk humbly with your God.) This arrangement of a Jim Strathdee composition requires a full set of five-octave handbells. A simple, steady, step-wise melody is found in all registers and is accompanied by sustained chord that give opportunity for beautiful visual presentation.

When I Am Laid in Earth

Henry PurcellOs composition from Dido and Aeneas is here set for bells in 45 measures. Lots of bell changes in mostly chordal textures make up the piece as well as soft dynamics.

While By My Sheep

A four octave arrangement of the traditional Christmas song. Echo part is scored for optional 2 octave choir.

Year of Jubilee is Come, The

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.