Published Compositions
Most of my compositions, beginning with my first piece published in 1991, have optional instruments and/or multiple performance options, such as bell choir and handbell solo/accompaniment. Many include instrumental ensembles like recorder consort or string orchestra, which are compatible and completely independent, so they can be performed as separate pieces. Selections marked as “piece within a piece” (to my knowledge, I’m the only handbell composer that does this) can be performed as an original composition when the arranged material is omitted. These options give greater flexibility, and more “bang for your buck,” thus stretching your music budget and library.
Please follow the links for scores and/or recordings. Some MP3’s are computer generated, while others are performed by live choirs. Click HERE for the lectionary, liturgical, seasonal guides and a separate listing of choral and instrumental works. Click HERE for a quick reference list of original compositions.
AGEHR PUBLISHING
Oh For a Thousand Tongues. 3-5 oct./opt. 3 oct. chimes. Church Music Sunday/General. A PDF of
the score is provided as it is difficult to hear the treble notes on this recording. Malecki Music Best Seller. Lvl. 3. #AG35118. thousand.mp3 thousand.pdf
Osse Shalom (Nurit Hirsh). 3-5 oct./opt. 1 oct. chimes, clarinet or violin & tambourine set in a rousing Klezmer style. Recorded on CD, DVD and used for festivals numerous times. This recording played by Embellish, Grand Rapids, MI, Stephanie Wiltse, Director. AGEHR Best Seller, & Jeffers “HOT 40” title. Lvl. 3. HB Score: #AG35165-2. Inst. Parts: #30/1437AG. Osse.mp3
Tuya es la Gloria (We Sing of Your Glory). 3-5 oct./opt. 3 oct. chimes, flute (C inst.) and guitar OR bell solo/accomp. Hymn tune is augmented by an original melody I wrote. Repertoire for many AGEHR festivals including 2010 Area XI Festival Conference and 2007 Area I Festival Conference. A Jeffers “HOT 40” title for nearly 2 years. AGEHR Best Seller. Lvl. 2. #AG35251.
Will You Come and Follow Me (The Summons). 3-5 oct. bells and/or chimes w/opt. violin (C inst.).
This lovely, traditional Scottish melody is supported by flowing LV and a variety of accompaniment figures. Fragile at first, it unfolds to reveal an ending that strongly reflects the joy and conviction
of following God’s call! The ornamentation in the slow, almost fiddle-like violin part enhances the
Scottish feel of the piece. Consider using it for your next “Kirking of the Tartan” ceremony! Lvl. 3.
Jeffers “HOT 40” title, AGEHR Best Seller. #AG35289. Summons.mp3
A.M.S.I.
Czechoslovakian Carol. (Come all ye shepherds) 3-5 oct. handbells. Christmas. Lvl. 3. #HB-27.
Four Festive Hymns for the Church Year. 2-3 oct./opt. organ & trumpet(s). Easy - cue notes allow the pieces to “grow” with the choir. Contains: All Good Gifts (Thanksgiving), Christ the Lord is Risen (Easter), Come Thou Almighty King, and Trumpet Voluntary on Rejoice the Lord Is King (Christ the King). Lvl. 2. HB score: #HB-38. FS/Parts: #HB38S. GiftsHBOnly.mp3 Risen.mp3 ComeThou.mp3 Rejoice.mp3
Hymmworks II. Collection of short “fillers” for bells and various instruments. Contains: In Dulci Jubilo, The Holly and the Ivy, Holy Manna, The King of Love My Shepherd Is (St. Columba) and Somerset Carol. Easy. #HB-34.
Two Hymns in the Renaissance Style. 3 oct./opt. recorder quartet and perc. Contains: Madrigal on In Thee Is Gladness (General) and Galliard on Fling Wide the Door (Advent). Lvl. 2. HB score: #HB-33.
FS/Parts: #HB33S. Gladness.mp3 Fling.mp3
AUGSBURG FORTRESS
Elegy. 2 oct./opt. sop. sax (Bb or C inst) OR bell solo/piano. Original composition. Video recording
played by Campanelli, Estonia, Inna Lai, Director; CD recording played by Handglockenchor, Hannover, Germany, Lothar Mohn, Musical Director. Lvl. 2. #11-10554. Elegy.wmv ElegyCD.mp3
Give Me Jesus. 3 oct. handbells. Tender, fragile and almost mournful, this setting is a perfect choice for Lent or reflective services. Lvl. 2. #11-10983. GiveMeJesus.mp3
Largo (Vivaldi). 3 oct./opt. C inst. (or guitar) solo, OR bell solo/keyboard or guitar accomp. This highly versatile setting of Vivaldi’s “Lute [mandolin, guitar] Concerto in D major RV93,” has 6 performance options. It is suitable for church, concert or special occasions such as weddings. Lvl. 2. #11-10556.
A Plainchant Meditation. 3 oct. handbells. A medley of Adoro te Devote, Divinum Mysterium, and
Pange Lingua. Advent, Christmas, Lent, General. Morning Suite. Original composition in 3
movements: Psalm, Pastorale, and Dance (has an optional processional and/or bell tree). Lvl. 3.
#11-10696. “Plainchant” & “Morning Suite” are in the same folio... four pieces for the price of one!
Plainchant.mp3 Psalm.mp3 Pastorale.mp3 Dance.mp3
BECKENHORST PRESS
Christmas Reflections, an original composition with Christmas carol quotes sprinkled throughout. A “piece within a piece,” it can be played anytime during the year by eliminating the Christmas carol fragments. Commissioned by Deborah and David Rice for the Rejoice Ringers, Becks Baptist Church, Winston-Salem, NC, it is the title song for their CD. 3-7 oct./opt. 3-6 oct. chimes. Lvl. 3+. #HB230.
Eventide is a medley of “Abide With Me,” “All Night, All Day,” and “Tallis’ Canon” arranged for 3
octaves of bells with optional 3 octaves of chimes. Lent, funerals, evening or mid-week Lenten
services. Lvl. 3. #HB242. Live Performance: eventide.mp3
King of Glory. 3-6 oct./opt. Bb clarinet or violin. Klezmer arrangement suitable for Advent, Palm Sunday, General, concert, or festival. Lvl. 3+. #HB292.
CHORISTERS GUILD
Easter Alleluia (O Sons and Daughters). 3-5 oct./optional 3 oct. chimes, percussion, solo C or Bb instrument. A festive, versatile piece with driving rhythms and rich harmonies. Uses a method I
invented in the early 1990’s to suspend and mallet chimes by placing them clapper side down on the table. Diverse accompaniment is used, from ostinato to crashing chords; descant to pedal point, culminating in an exciting accelerando and Carmina Burana-like ending. Lvl. 2. #CGB216.
Live Performance: easter_alleluia2.mp3
I've Just Come From the Fountain. 3-5 oct. handbells. This is a fun, upbeat arrangement with plenty of stopped sounds, including a new technique I invented that calls for malleting the handles of the bells! There’s plenty of variety, with the melody featured in the treble, battery or bass, and a “call and response” section, characteristic of the style of spirituals. Minimal use of parentheses and brackets means 3 and 4 octave choirs will not have to omit many notes, which is quite unusual in 3-5 octave arrangements. Baptism, General. Lvl. 2+. Jeffers “HOT 40” title. #CGB531. Live Performance: fountain_live.mp3
COMPOSERS MUSIC COMPANY
Chaconne. 3 oct./optional 1-2 oct. chimes. This original composition sports variations over a ground bass, similar to the Pachelbel “Canon.” Can be performed on bells, chimes, or both. Good teaching tool for dotted 8th-16th rhythm. Lvl. 2. #CP7025.
CONCORDIA PUBLISHING HOUSE
Casabel. 3 oct. with opt. sleigh bells. A fun fusion of Good King Wenceslas/Ding Dong Merrily on
High. The opening imitates Prokofiev’s “Troika.” Jeffers “HOT 40” title. Lvl. 2. Concordia #97-6707.
Coronation Fanfare (All Hail the Power). 3-6 oct./org./piccolo trumpet or 2 trpts./timp./opt.
congregation. A “piece within a piece,” it can be played as an original composition when the
hymn sections are omitted. Great selection for Palm Sunday. Lvl. 3. HB score: #97-6721.
FS/Parts: #97-6704. Coronation.mp3
Fum, Fum, Fum. 3-5 oct./opt. 2 oct. chimes, castanets & tambourine. Fun arrangement that sports a tango in the middle section. Lvl. 3. #97-6898. Fum.mp3
Lenten Prayer. 3 oct./opt. flute OR bell solo/piano. An etherial original composition. Lvl. 2. #97-6616.
Nativity Carol (Puer Nobis Nacitur/Angels We Have Heard). 3-5 oct./opt. 3 oct. chimes, 1-3 oct.
alternate bells or orchestral (tubular) bells, sleigh bells. Has an optional modified change ringing sequence in the middle section for a soloist (bell tree or orchestral bells) or quartet. MP3. Lvl. 2+.
#97-7064. NativityPartial.mp3 NativityComplete.mp3
Noel, Ye Merry Gentlemen. 3 oct./opt. 2 oct. chimes &/or recorder. An artful blending of Noel Nouvelet and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen. Lvl. 2. #97-6674. NoelMerry.mp3
Suite for Handbells & Trumpet in the Baroque Style. 2-3 oct./opt org. & trpt(s). Original composition of 4 movements: Trumpet Voluntary, Fuguing Tune, Hornpipe and Postlude. Great for weddings or general. Lvl. 3. #97-6621. trpt_vol_live.mp3 trpt_vol_inst.mp3 Fuging.mp3 Hornpipe.mp3
What You Gonna Call Your Pretty Little Baby. 3 oct./optional 1 oct. chimes.Makes a wonderful prelude or communion selection for Christmas season. Lvl. 2. #97-7105.
Zimbelstern. 2 oct. handbells. Original composition. This recording was played by Handglockenchor, Hannover, Germany, Lothar Mohn, Musical Director. Lvl. 3. #97-6848. Zimbelstern.mp3
FROM THE TOP MUSIC
Ain't a That Good News. Quartet, 3 oct. Have some fun with this energetic, boogie style quartet! #1032.
Air from Water Music (Handel). Quartet, 3 oct. bells or chimes. A stately, faithful transcription, appropriate for church services, weddings, or concert program. Bell assignments are notated by stem direction. #1029.
Brian Boru March. 3-5 oct./opt. flute (or C instrument). A toe tapping set of variations in 6/8 time, enhanced with LV's, malleting and thumb damps in the accompaniment. A quartet version is available also (see below). Melody may be played as a bell tree. Lvl. 3. #20168. Video of TV Commercial: briantvcommercial.mp4
Brian Boru March. Quartet version, 3 oct. #1027.
Dances from the Terpsichore (Praetorius). This extremely versatile collection is an excellent
resource for the church, school, or community ensemble. They can be used anytime during the year,
but would make a great addition to your next madrigal feast or Christmas service too. Advanced ensembles will enjoy these delightful dances even though they are a Level 2. Most are short with
optional repeats, but since they range from 20 measures (Sarabande) to 78 (Courante), they can
fit practically anywhere! All are for 2-5 oct. (#20198HB) and have compatible and completely independent recorder consort (#20198R), and string quartet or orchestra (#20198S) settings. Solo recorder, violin or C instrument can be used in lieu of the quartets. A “Tenor 2” part is included for
those ensembles that do not own a bass recorder. Some selections have optional chimes and percussion. The set includes 7 pieces: Ballet, Bransle de la Torche, Courante, Pavane de Spaigne, Sarabande, Spagnoletta, and Volta. All instrumental parts are included with the collection, and permission is granted to photocopy the handbell scores and instrumental parts, which makes them
quite a bargain at $29.95. Although they are duplicating masters, they are printed on quality 11 x 17 paper, like standard sheet music. Lvl. 2.
Do Lord. Quartet, 3 oct. An introduction reminiscent of “I got plenty of nothing” along with malleted accompaniment throughout adds to the fun in the arrangement of this familiar spiritual. #1030.
Fanfare for an Uncommon Instrument. 4-5 oct. with optional 2 oct. chimes, 2 oct. "alternate bells," brass quartet, or solo trumpet. Has processional/antiphonal and double choir options. Commissioned by Velocity Handbell Ensemble for their Vintage & Vogue tour. A quartet/3 oct. version is available also (see below). All settings are completely compatible AND completely independent, so they can be performed separately or in any combination. Lvl. 4. HB Score: #20172; Brass Quartet #20172B;
Solo Trumpet Part #20172T. Live Performance: uncommon_live.mp3
Fanfare for an Uncommon Instrument. Quartet -OR- 3 oct./opt. 2 oct. chimes, 2 oct. alternate bells, brass quartet or trpt. Processional/antiphonal and double choir options. (Compatible with above arrangements.) Lvl. 4. #20172-Q.
Holy Manna. Quartet, 3 oct. bells or chimes. This versatile arrangement has 4 performance options: handbell or handchime quartet, handbells with chime accompaniment (or vice-versa), solo handbell with keyboard accompaniment and solo C instrument with handbell/chimes or keyboard. #1037.
Let All Mortal Flesh. Quartet, 3 oct. bells with optional chimes. #1040. MP3
My Faith Looks Up to Thee. 3-5 oct./opt. 3-4 oct. chimes. A spirit-filled Gospel arrangement suitable for church, concert or festival. Has a separate compatible/completely independent SATB choir anthem also. Lvl. 3. HB Score: #20180; SATB choir #20180-C.
Noel Nouvelet. Quartet, 3 oct. Can be played for Christmas or Easter season as “Now the Green Blade Rises.” #1039.
O Waly,Waly. Quartet, 3 oct. bells or chimes. Suitable for general or weddings under the title Gift of
Love. #1038.
On This Day Earth Shall Ring. Processional/antiphonal arrangement for 3-5 oct. with optional 2 oct. chimes, 2 oct. alternate bells, & perc. ad lib. Lvl. 2. #20166. A quartet version is available also (see below). Live Performance: earth_shall_ring_live.mp3
On This Day Earth Shall Ring. Quartet, 3 oct. Processional/antiphonal arrangement for 3 octave quartet with opt. chimes & alternate bells. #1026.
HOT off the PRESS!!: Saint Louis Blues. 3-5 oct. gutsy, “down and dirty” arrangement of this famous Jazz standard! This innovative work sports an optional "vamp" section for an improvised jazz soloist (sax, trumpet, guitar, harmonica, etc.), ad lib. Another handbell first, to my knowledge! Level 3+ A guaranteed show stopper for concert, festival conference, or symposium! They’ll be dancing in the aisles! #20349.
PDF of the Finale file (published copy is much cleaner): louis_promo.pdf
Computer generated MP3: saint_louis_blues.mp3
Spiritus (Avalon). Two compatible versions: 5-7 oct./opt. 5-7 oct. chimes, -OR- 3-4 oct./opt. 2-4 oct. chimes, both with optional flute, bar or wind chimes. Lvl. 3. Avalon is an original programatic composition which captures the rich mysticism of English folklore. Inspiration for this piece influenced by the works of Vaughan Williams’s and Gustav Holst. The opening showcases the lower 6-7 octave chimes in the 5-7 version; and 3-4 in the latter setting. Unique elements include gorgeous, lush bass chords; singing bell technique; suspended, malleted treble ostinato; and a new technique called the “shimmer,” which was invented by Rusty Sanders. This piece is equally at home in church or the concert stage, this highly orchestral work is a great choice for symposium or festival conference. The piece was commissioned in 2007 by Nancy Hascall/Bells of the Cascades for their "Magic, Mystery and Majesty" concert. #20286-5.
Computer generated MP3: avaloncg.mp3 From the Top SoundPrint MP3: SpiritusAvalon.mp3
When Christ our Lord was Born/He Shall Feed His Flock. 3-5 oct./opt. 1 oct. chimes. A pastoral setting of the Sicilian "Bagpiper's Carol with snippets of Handel's "He Shall Feed His Flock" in the introduction, interludes and ending. Lvl. 3. #20185.
GIA PUBLICATIONS
Nowell Sing We. Pull out all the stops and have your choir, recorder consort, string orchestra (or quartet) and handbell choirs join forces for this rousing setting of the Medieval carol! Use a hand drum or tambourine ad lib for extra flair. Employs a Landini Cadence, another “first” in handbell literature! Arrangements for all the ensembles are completely independent and can be performed by as few as one, to all of the ensembles in any combination. 3-5 oct. with optional 3-4 oct. chimes GIA #G-6366; SATB choir #G-6367; recorder quartet #G-6367INST-B (incl. full score); string quartet or orchestra
#G-6367INST-A (incl. full score). Lvl. 3.
Psallite (Praetorius). Looking for a bell/choral/orchestra arrangement for Christmas? This setting is compatible with most of the choral transcriptions published (see matching SATB choir anthem GIA
#G-2136). Arrangements for all ensembles are independent so they can be performed in any combination, together or separately. 3-5 oct./opt. 2 oct. chimes, recorder quartet, string quartet or orchestra. Lvl. 2. Jeffers “HOT 40” title. #G-6341. Live Performance: psallite.mp3
Canto de Esperanza. 3-5 oct./opt. 2-3 oct. chimes, marimba (C inst.), guitar, claves, congas, maracas, vibra slap. Repertoire: 2009 Feb Fest, Houston, TX; 2007 Youth Handbell Festival, Baptist State Convention, NC; 2006 CORD Festival, OK. Lvl. 3. #G-6624. Live Performance: canto.mp3
Eres Digno (You Are Worthy). 3-5 oct./opt. 2 or 5 oct. chimes. Another Latin American favorite! A Sheet Music Plus Best Seller. Lvl. 3. #G-6881.
GREEN ROSE PRESS
Two Schubert Waltzes. 3-5 oct. handbells. Lvl. 2+. #HB-0166.
GRP selections that have gone out of print have been re-released by 4 Tolled Publishing.
HIGH MEADOW MUSIC PUBLISHING
Ave Verum (Mozart). Quartet, 3 oct. Avail. Spring 2010 Ave.mp3
BelAyre. 3 oct./opt. flute (C inst.) OR bell solo/piano. Original composition in a soft Jazz style. Lvl. 2. #HM-01-046. BelAyre.mp3
Caribbean Canon. 3-5 oct./opt. Marimba, steel pan (&/or) flute-like inst., percussion & bass guitar. Original composition with an island flair! Repertoire for the 2009 1st Asia Handbell Festival, Singapore. Lvl. 3. #HM-01-040. Caribbean.mp3 Caribbean_opt_instruments.mp3
Child is Born in Bethlehem, A. (Puer Natus). 3 oct./optional 2 oct. chimes, sopranino recorder, (C inst.), lute (guitar) bass gamba (cello) & percussion. Lvl. 3. #HM-01-059. Child_born.mp3
Consolation. 3 oct, Medley of Come Ye Disconsolate and When Peace Like a River. Each tune has its say and then the 2 are interwoven. Excellent choice for Lent or funerals. Lvl. 2. #HM-01-016.
Contemplation. 3 or 5 oct./opt. chimes or flute. Original composition in the style of a Baroque chorale prelude. Another piece with a completely independent treble line (instead of doubling), giving the 2 versions a distinctly different character (and level ratings). Commissioned by Laurie Sanders for Crusader Bells, San Diego, CA and played by them on this recording. Lvl. 3. #HM-01-022. Contemplation.mp3
Echo Fanfare. Double (or single) handbell choir (3 & 5 oct.)/opt. organ or 3 or 5 oct./opt. organ. Original antiphonal composition with 6 performance options great for a festival conference where double choirs are handy! Lvl. 2. #HM-08-002. echo.mp3
Greensleeves. Handbell solo (2-4 oct.)/Guitar accomp. See Bells Guitar page for description and sound files. #HM-05-010.
Hark I Hear the Harps Eternal. 5-6 oct. handbells. An upbeat, energetic arrangement with 16th note filigree to keep your treble ringers busy! The sensitive “B” section provides a nice contrast. Was used to audition/place ringers at Pinnacle. Like Elysium, Contemplation, Vortex, et al, this piece sports an independent line in the upper 4th-5th octave, instead of just doubling the melody up. Lvl. 3.
#HM-01-071. Hark.mp3
Hush a Bye. (All the Pretty Little Horses) A contemplative, relaxing arrangement of this beautiful American folk lullaby. 3 oct./opt. 3 oct. chimes & perc.Lvl. 2. #HM-01-072. Hush.mp3
Indonesian Impressions. 5 oct. An original composition which imitates the sound of a Javanese gamelan. Uses a technique I invented called a “pinch damp.” Lvl. 3. #HM-01-019.
Computer generated MP3: Indonesian.mp3 Live Performance: indo_live.mp3
Jig Fugue in C (Buxtehude). 4-5 oct. lvl. 5. This recording played by MACH, Madison, WI, Dr. Susan S. Udell, Director. #HM-01-031. Jig.mp3
O Come, Little Children. Handbell solo (2 oct.)/Guitar accomp. See Bells Guitar page for description and sound files. #HM-05-011.
Panis Angelicus (Franck). Duet: Flute (or 1 oct. chimes)/handbell (2 oct.)/keybd accomp. A best seller. Commissioned by Stephanie Wiltse, handbell soloist and director of Embellish. #HM-05-004.
PanisChimeBells.mp3 PanisFluteBells.mp3
Silent Night. Handbell solo (3 oct.)/Guitar accomp. See Bells Guitar page for description and sound files. #HM-05-012.
St. Anthony Chorale. Quartet, 3 oct. Avail. Spring 2010 Anthony.mp3
Thanks Be To Thee (Handel). 3 oct. bells &/or chimes with opt. solo C inst., OR bell solo/ keyboard accomp. Lvl. 2. #HM-01-013. Thanks.mp3
HOPE PUBLISHING
Bwana Awabariki (May God Grant You a Blessing). 3-5 oct./opt. 3-5 oct. chimes & talking drum (or
hand drum). This fun-filled arrangement has plenty of variety, from its stopped techniques down to
the optional percussion. The call & response, rhythm, and chord voicings, are designed to imitate the sound of traditional African choral music. The melody in the bells serves as the "leader," with the optional chimes as the "chorus." Bwana will make a unique addition to your church, concert or festival repertoire. Lvl. 2. Hope Publishing Best Seller, Jeffers “HOT 40” & J.W. Pepper Editor’s Choice. #2533.
Heaven's Rest. 3-6 oct./optional 3 oct.chimes, sopranino recorder (C inst.). This reflective original composition begins in a contemplative manner and builds progressively. The melody, reminiscent of early American "southern harmony" tunes, is sustained by flowing LV accompaniment. Suitable for sacred or secular use, it is equally at home in church or concert setting. Has been used for many festivals. Lvl. 2. A Jeffers “HOT 40” title. #2155.
How Firm a Foundation/Simple Gifts Medley. 3-7 oct./opt. 3-4 oct. chimes, bell tree, 2-3 Petit & Fritsen (silver melody bells or tubular chimes), & glockenspiel. Multi textural, highly orchestral arrangement. Repertoire for 2005 AGEHR National Festival Conference, Springfield, MO. Reformation/General. Lvl. 2+. A Jeffers “HOT 40” title. #2183. Live Performance: foundation.mp3
I’m So Glad. 3-5 oct. This boogie/big band style arrangement of the spiritual is tons of fun to play! Stopped sounds abound; even the bell or mallet handles get into the action as they are clicked together in the finale. Perfect for church, concert or Festival Conference, this inventive arrangement will have them dancing in the aisles! Jeffers “HOT 40” title. Lvl. 3+. #2489.
Lo, He Comes With Clouds Descending. A “piece within a piece,” the introduction, interlude and coda can be performed as an original composition. A showy piece for church, concert or festival, it can be used for Advent, general or Ascension under its alternate title, Look, Ye Saints! The Sight is Glorious. Powerful opening and closing fanfare frames the hymn tune, which receives a variety of treatments ranging from chordal, to contrapuntal and antiphonal. Counter melody, mallets and chimes serve to imitate the sound of a pipe organ. Repertoire for festivals including Bay View 2003 and the 2008 AGEHR National Festival Conference, Orlando, FL. 3-6 oct./opt. 3-4 oct. chimes. Lvl. 3+. Jeffers “HOT 40” title. #2253. Here’s an amazing example of precision ringing by the Agape Ringers, David L. Weck, conductor: lo_live_agape.MP3 Click here for You Tube Vid
JEFFERS HANDBELL SUPPLY
Air (Appalachian Air). 3 oct./opt. recorder (C inst.) OR bell solo/piano. My first published piece. Original composition with an Appalachian folk or Celtic feel. Lvl. 2. #JHS9064. air_partial.mp3
Chorale Prelude. 3 oct./opt. oboe (C inst.) OR bell solo/organ. A barpque-like original composition. Repertoire for the 1996 AGEHR National Young Ringers Festival. 2+. #JHS9082. chorale.mp3
Wexford Carol. 3 oct. handbells. Lvl. 2+. #JHS9128. wexford.mp3
LAURENDALE ASSOCIATES
Juxtaposition. 5 oct./opt. 3 oct. chimes. An original composition in a “new age” style, great for concert, bronze festival selection or community choir. This recording was played by The Ringers-on-the-Green,
a high school ensemble from Presbyterian Church, Morristown, NJ, Dr. James D. Hicks, Director.
Lvl. 3+. #HB-1080. Juxt.mp3 JuxtComp.mp3
Mediævale. 3 oct./opt. piccolo (C inst.) & perc. Another “first,” this original double quartet is written for one choir using only one 3 oct. set of bells. (Each quartet has 1.5 oct. of bells.) Commissioned by Laurie and Rusty Sanders for RingOut! Ensemble and premiered at the 1999 San Diego DS. 2001-2003 repertoire for Velocity Handbell Ensemble. #HB-1056.
Strike it Up Tabor (Weelkes). 3-5 oct./opt. 3 oct. chimes, sopranino or alto recorder (C inst.) & tambourine. Another lively piece for your Madrigal Feast! Lvl. 3. #HB-1126.
StrikeTaborHB.mp3 StrikeTaborTutti.mp3
LORENZ
Star in the East. 3-5 oct./opt. 2-3 oct. chimes, finger cymbals & tambourine. Perfect for Christmas
or Epiphany, this setting of the familiar “shape note” carol sports a neo-Renaissance feel with its
open 5ths, stopped articulations and optional percussion. You can almost hear the Magi en route
to Bethlehem! J.W. Pepper “Editor’s Choice.” 20/1527L. Lvl. 2.
Twas in the Moon of Wintertime. 3 oct. handbells. An “oldie but goodie,” like many of my pieces, it was the first arrangement of this carol in print for handbells. Lvl. 2. #20/113L-2 Twas.mp3
NATIONAL MUSIC PUBLISHERS
My Bonny Lass. 3-5 oct. w/opt. 3 oct. chimes, AATB recorder consort, string quartet or orchestra. Arrangements for all ensembles are completely independent (can be played separately) and compatible. 9 performance options. Lvl. 2+. HB score: #NMHB-622; String parts: #NMHB-622STR; Recorder parts: #NMHB-622REC; FS: #NMHB-622FS. BonnyBells.mp3 BonnyRec.mp3 BonnyStrings.mp3
Now is the Month of Maying. 3-5 oct./opt. chimes, sopranino recorder, (C Inst.) & tambourine. Lvl. 2. HB score: #NMHB-623; FS: #NMHB-623A May.mp3
Passacaglia. 5 oct./opt. 5-6 oct. chimes. Commissioned by Laurie & Rusty Sanders for Crusader Bells. Variations start softly and then build progressively throughout the piece. Malleted bells, thumb damps and optional handchimes in the echo phrases are imitative of a pipe organ. Concert, bronze festival selection or church. Lvl. 4+. “Platinum Series” #HB-621. Passacaglia.mp3
Perpetual Motion. 5 oct./opt. 5-6 oct. chimes. Commissioned by Laurie & Rusty Sanders for Crusader Bells. A thrilling show of technique, it is suitable for church, concert, or bronze festival selection. Similar to a baroque organ toccata, the melismatic 16th note themes bounce antiphonally back and forth between the upper middle and lower octaves, while articulations and chimes provide contrast. Lvl. 4. “Platinum Series” #HB-620. Perpetual.mp3
Sing We and Chant It. 3-5 oct./opt. recorder consort or solo recorder (C Inst.). Arrangements for the ensembles are completely independent and can be played separately or together. 4 performance options. Repertoire for the 2008 AGEHR National Festival Conference, Orlando, FL. Lvl. 3.
HB score: #NMHB-624; FS/Parts: #NMHB-624FS. SingHB.mp3 SingRecorder.mp3
RING OUT! PRESS
You Alone are Holy (Solo tu Eres Santo). If you liked "Tuya" you'll love this one too! 3-5 oct./optional 2 oct. chimes, flute (C Inst.) & guitar. A sweet, relaxed samba, the melody is featured in the treble, while chimes echo in counter melody in the battery, and then in the bass. Vibrato chimes imitative of a marimba enhance the Latin American flavor of the piece, as does the optional flute and guitar. There is only 1 note in parenthesis and 4 bracketed notes, which is rare in 3-5 octave pieces. Lvl. 2+. #RO3271.
SASSAFRAS PUBLISHING
Whispering Hope. 3-5 oct./ optional 2 oct. chimes & 1 oct. Petit & Fritsen (alternate) bells. Music box-like accompaniment and chimes combine for an arrangement with a turn of the century charm. Lvl. 2. #SPHB-134. Whisper.mp3
SOUNDFORTH (Bob Jones University Press)
Fantasy on Fillmore. 3-5 oct. handbells. This shape-note hymn tune is associated with many texts including “Come, O Thou Traveler Unknown,” “Where Shall My Wondering Soul Begin,” and “And Can it Be,” so it will fit with a variety of readings used during the church year. A sensitive, florid arrangement, with rich harmonies that builds to a powerful climax, then ebbs to a tender closing. Works equally well in a blended, praise, or traditional service. Lvl. 2. #268466.
NEW!! The Hills are Bare in Bethlehem. 3-5 octaves w/opt. violin (C inst.). This sensitive arrangement of the familiar shape note hymn "Prospect" can pull extra duty for Pentecost, stewardship, or general in addition to Christmas, under its alternate titles, including "Lone, Wild Bird" and as "Creating God, Your Fingers Trace." Sparse chord voicing, parallel intervals and swing bass, punctuated by effervescent mart lifts enhance the Early American feel of the piece. The optional violin part, reminiscent of an Appalachian fiddle, doubles the melody and then sports a haunting counter melody in the final section. Flowing LV’s in the middle section support the lovely, traditional tune, and the piece culminates with a grand, majestic ending. Lvl. 2. #279034. Computer generated MP3 with handbells & violin: hills_bethlehem.mp3
Live Performance, handbells only: bethlehem_SF.mp3
HOT off the PRESS!!: Trumpet Voluntary. 3-5 oct., optional trumpet and organ. This highly versatile arrangement of John Stanley’s famous work boasts 5 performance options: handbells, handbells and trumpet, handbells and organ, handbells with trumpet and organ, or organ and trumpet, and can even be played antiphonally! Optional instruments are not required for performance, so the handbell part can stand alone. Great choice for a wedding processional, recessional or festival conference opener! Lvl. 3.
Soundforth #279075 (Handbells); #279067 (Full score/parts).
Computer generated MP3, handbells & instruments: stanley.mp3
Live Performance, handbells only: stanley_SF.mp3
RIMA GREER/ABOVE THE LINE PUBLISHING (Duplicating Masters)
Abominations on Row Your Boat. Hilarious variations a la Bach, Verdi, et al, for 3-5 oct. with opt. chimes, boomwhackers &/or anvil. Commissioned by Laurie Sanders for RingOut! Ensemble. Lvl. 3. Row.mp3
Elysium. 5 Performance options. 3 oct. OR 5 oct. bells or chimes/opt. flute(s) OR bell solo (3 oct.)/piano. My very first commission, contracted in 1996 by Laurie Sanders and Rusty Sanders (and named by him) for Crusader Bells, Pacific Beach Presbyterian Church, San Diego, CA. Originally, it was written for 3 octaves, but they asked me to expand it to 5 when they received the manuscript. Rather than doubling the treble 8va, I decided to write a completely independent descant line for the trebles so the 2 versions would have a different character. This orignal composition is suitable for baptisms, weddings, or general. It also works great as an antiphonal or massed work for festivals, especially Young Ringers (3 oct., Lvl. 2.) and Adults (5 oct., Lvl. 3+).
Sue's Blues. (2 versions) 3-4 oct. handchimes/opt. C, Bb or Eb inst., guitar, acoustic bass OR bell solo (3 oct.)/chimes or keyboard. A free and breezy original composition for Jazz ensemble, concert or community handbell group. Lvl. 2.
Sue's Blues Too. (3 versions) 3-4 oct. bells, C, Bb or Eb solo inst./opt. guitar & bass, OR bell solo (2 oct.)/accomp. OR jazz ensemble (solo inst./accomp./bass). An original composition for Jazz ensemble, concert or community handbell group. Steamy and sultry, this piece could be a soundtrack for a private eye movie! Lvl. 2. SuesBluesToo.mp3
Trilogy. 3-5 oct./opt. sop. recorder (C inst.) & electric guitar. Walk on the wild side with this triptych that seamlessly moves from New Age to Celtic and then Rock in this original composition for festival or the concert stage. The electric guitar solo soars a-la Terry Kath, of “Chicago” fame. Lvl. 4. Trilogy.mp3
Vortex. 4-6 oct./ optional 2 oct. chimes &/or Petit & Fritsen (alternate) bells. Driving, forceful and energetic, this original composition packs plenty of punch! Marts, ring touch and LVs propel the piece forward to an exhilarating ending, complete with a harmonized whole tone scale (a “first” in handbell literature)! A great postlude for the advanced choir (use alternate name “Fantasia”), concert opener, closer, or bronze festival piece! Repertoire for AGEHR 2010 Distinctly Bronze East. Lvl 4. Live Performance: vortex_live.wma
99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall. (2 versions) 3-5 oct. bells/opt. percussion ad.lib. OR bell solo/piano. Humorous arrangement written for Rise Kagan’s pub gig in Germany. Lvl. 3.
NOTE: All pieces are available from your favorite retailer or directly from the publishers.