Ringing In The Season
2015
|
INSTRUMENTATION
5-7 octaves handbells OR 5-7 octaves handbells with 3 octaves handchimes |
DURATION
ca. 3 minutes |
DIFFICULTY
Level 3-4 |
Originally scored for an ensemble of three bell choirs, Ringing in the Season is an arrangement of two familiar Christmas songs. In the opening, the melody of I Saw Three Ships is passed between the different choirs, as each of them approaches the shore on Christmas morning. Modal harmonies accompany the theme and lead it into Angels We Have Heard On High, where the key is forced from major to minor. The piece’s drama peaks when when minor bell peals crash like waves into the clanging chords of accompanying choirs, until finally the dissonances resolve back into an echoing round of I Saw Three Ships, culminating with a joyous unison from all three choirs.
Two versions are available for purchase: one for handbell choirs with 5, 6, or 7 octaves; and one for handbell choir with 5, 6, or 7 octaves and handchime choir with 3 octaves. Perfect for groups of ringers with varying skill levels.
Two versions are available for purchase: one for handbell choirs with 5, 6, or 7 octaves; and one for handbell choir with 5, 6, or 7 octaves and handchime choir with 3 octaves. Perfect for groups of ringers with varying skill levels.