Make a Joyful Noise to the Lord
This sparkling and lively original piece is inspired by the familiar words of Psalm 100, "Make a noise to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God." The Psalm text is printed above the handbell staves to provide interpretive guidance for ringers and directors.
Written for 3-7 octaves of handbells and optional handchimes, the opening alternates between 6/8 and 3/4 time, making use of mallets in the rhythmic accompaniment. The middle section is gentle and reflective, featuring optional handchimes as an accompaniment for the handbell melody, then gradually returns to the opening theme, ending broadly in grand fashion.