Best of Agape Vol 5 (3-5 Oct)

Composer: Various
Arranger: Various
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 3
Publisher: Hope Publishing Co.

Bell Tree for Worship

Composer: Various
Arranger: Lamb, Linda R.
Octaves: 3
Level: NA
Publisher: Hope Publishing Co.

In Dulci Jubilo

This famous Christmas melody is set for 3 to 6 octaves of handbells and optional string orchestra. The bell part stands on its own with a lilting 6/8 rhythm.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Behnke, John A.
Octaves: 3-6
Level: 3
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

King Shall Come, The

Based on the hymn tune, Morning Song or Consolation, dramatic swings begin this arrangement. After the initial hearing of the tune, a melodic motive is used to intensify the piece.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Norman, Nancy A.
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2+
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

O Come All Ye Faithful

Ascending chords announce the beginning of this arrangement. The skill of the arranger can be heard with superb chord choices and wonderful harmonies.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Mazzatenta, Michael
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

What Child Is This

This arrangement combines What Child is This and The First Noel into a wonderful Christmas offering with the possibility for adding a string orchestra and tambourine.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Behnke, John
Octaves: 3-6
Level: 2
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

Puttin on the Ritz

This Irving Berlin hit from the late 1920s was featured in a film and was quite a hit! The title – Puttin’ On the Ritz – comes from the phrase meaning to ‘dress very fashionably,’ and that is exactly what Hart Morris has done with this piece. While being faithful to the original tune, he has dressed it in an amazingly ritzy yet elegant musical fashion.

Composer: Berlin, Irving
Arranger: Morris, Hart
Octaves: 5
Level: 5
Publisher: From the Top Music

Puttin on the Ritz

Passion Prelude

Composer: Various
Arranger: Moats, William E.
Octaves: 2
Level: 1
Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc.

Lo How a Rose E'er Blooming

An ostinato pattern in the middle bells accompanied by full chords from both high and low bells introduces this hauntingly beautiful carol.

Composer: Praetorius, Michael
Arranger: Ward, Robert J.
Octaves: 3
Level: 3
Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc.

Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel

This exhilarating rhythmic romp is designed for the intermediate to advanced ensemble.

Composer: Traditional Spiritual
Arranger: Lamb, Linda R.
Octaves: 2-5
Level: 3
Publisher: G.I.A. Publications, Inc.

Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel

In Dulci Jubilo

This famous Christmas melody is set for 3 to 6 octaves of handbells and optional string orchestra. The bell part stands on its own with a lilting 6/8 rhythm.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Behnke, John A.
Octaves: 3-6
Level: 3
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

Church's One Foundation

With shaking and pealing bells, this arrangement introduces the majestic melody of Aurelia, The Church’s One Foundation.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Lamb, Robert James
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

Grace All Sufficient

Grace All-Sufficient, written in response to Hurricane Harvey, is a powerful setting of the Dies Irae and the hymn tunes Foundation, Restoration, and King’s Weston. A testament to God’s redemptive power, this piece shines in worship, festival, or concerts.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Tucker, Sondra
Octaves: 3-6
Level: 2
Publisher: Casa Publications

Let All the People Praise

With lyrics based on Psalm 148, this delightful anthem invites active participation in praise by all ages and all disciplines. It is imaginatively composed for SATB Choir, Youth Choir and Piano.

Composer: Boersma, Susan Bentall
Arranger: Courtney, Craig
Octaves: 3-5
Level: NA
Publisher: Beckenhorst Press, Inc.

Songs In the Night

A little melodic phrase of six simple notes leads to a glorious original melody that moves from C minor to E flat Major, from night to day; in a composition that transforms before our very eyes and ears. Near the close, the hymn tune, How Can I Keep From Singing? appears as the transformation is nearly complete.

Composer: Tucker, Sondra K.
Octaves: 3-7
Level: 3
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

Together We Stand

Here is the winner of the 2019 Area 2 Festival Conference Composition Contest. With big full chords, this new original piece presents its stately melody first in C Major, then in E flat Major, and finally back in C Major.

Composer: McKlveen, Paul
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2
Publisher: AGEHR Publishing

Fanfare and Variation in C

This original work is suitable for worship or concert and features a delightfully happy melody supported by counter melodies in the inner voices. Nicely placed stopped sounds and dynamic variances create interest for the listener as well as expressive challenges for the ringers.

Composer: Onstead, Caleb J.
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 3+
Publisher: From the Top Music

Fanfare and Variation in C

Classic Treasures

The arrangements/transcriptions in this collection are designed for a handbell or handchime soloist with string quartet. It contains a full score as well as separate books for each instrument part: bells, 2 violins, viola, and cello. In the event that a conductor would like to use a full string orchestra, extra parts can be purchased separately. Should there be no access to a handbell or handchime soloist, any C instrument can play the handbell part.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Doran, Tim
Octaves: 2
Level: NA
Publisher: C.A.N. Enterprises

Songs of Fanny Crosby

These arrangements by Tim Doran are written as duets between a handbell or handchime soloist and violinist, along with piano accompaniment. It has three sections: 1. The complete score of all parts. 2. A separate 2 1⁄2 octave handbell/chime part – under certain circumstances the handbell/chime soloist may opt to have this part played by a violin. 3. A separate violin part. A flute part is included in the event a violinist is not available. It is the same part but in the range of a flute.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Crosby, Fanny & Doran, Tim
Octaves: 2
Level: NA
Publisher: C.A.N. Enterprises

Drop Drop Slow Tears

This easy anthem for SATB and 3 octaves of handbells (or piano) uses the melody and harmonization of Orlando Gibbons' hymn tune SONG 46. A fair amount of unison and two-part singing precedes the four-part final verse.

Composer: Olejar, Peter Paul
Octaves: 3
Level: NA
Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers

Drop Drop Slow Tears

There Is a Balm In Gilead

Michael Ryan’s flowing arrangement of this spiritual makes subtle use of imitation and has no dynamics louder than mezzo-forte, making it a lovely addition to services with a theme of healing.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Ryan, Michael
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Strife Is O'er

Dan Edwards’s brief but triumphant arrangement of Palestrina’s tune “Victory” is a great option for ensembles that need a short piece for Easter services.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Edwards, Dan R.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Processional on Ebenezer

Michael Helman’s sturdy arrangement of this tune is usable for many occasions; “Ebenezer” is used for the following hymns: Come, O Spirit Dwell Among Us; Once to Every Man and Nation; and O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Helman, Michael
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2+
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Lift Up Your Heads

Full of fanfare, Linda Lamb’s medley of the tunes “Truro” and “Ellacombe” is an exciting way to open your Palm Sunday or Easter service. A number of techniques are employed to make the most out of your 2 or 3 octave ensemble.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Lamb, Linda R.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

I Come With Joy

Matthew Robertson has written a lovely, lilting arrangement of the 6/8 tune “Dove of Peace”. Cheerful and energetic, this piece gives all ringers a chance to play part of the melody.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Robertson, Matthew
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 3
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Holy God We Praise Thy Name

Opening with a sparse texture, Sandra Eithun’s arrangement of the tune “Grosser Gott” expands to forte with full chords before ending as it began. With only a few eighth notes, minimal bell changes, and a repeated middle section, this piece will be easy to learn for most ensembles.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Eithun, Sandra
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2-
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Happy the Home When God Is There

Also associated with the hymn "Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee", the tune “St. Agnes” receives a light, fluid treatment in the hands of master arranger Jason Krug.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Krug, Jason W.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

God of the Ages

Noble in character, Jason Krug’s arrangement of the tune “National Hymn” is a thoughtful addition to occasions observing members and veterans of the Armed Forces.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Krug, Jason W.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 3
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

From Death to Life Eternal

Celebrate Christ’s resurrection with this festive medley of the tunes “Llanfair” (Jesus Christ Is Risen Today) and “Diademata” (Crown Him with Many Crowns).

Composer: Various
Arranger: Ingram, Bill
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2+
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Come Christians Join to Sing

Dan Edwards’s arrangement of the familiar hymn tune “Madrid” (or “Spanish Hymn”) is a compelling addition to services throughout the year.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Edwards, Dan R.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Battle Hymn of the Republic

An excellent option for less experienced ensembles wanting to celebrate Patriotic occasions, Ron Mallory’s arrangement of “Battle Hymn of the Republic” contains no rhythmic values shorter than a quarter note, and only a few bell changes.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Mallory, Ron
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 1+
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Arioso

This elegant, original composition by Michael Helman will work well as music during offertories and communion. With only a few bell changes, this piece is an excellent option for ensembles venturing into Level 2 territory.

Composer: Helman, Michael
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Alleluia Sing to Jesus

The versatile tune “Hyfrydol” receives a jubilant treatment in this exciting setting by Michael Ryan. Though the title suggests an Easter usage, this arrangement could be used throughout the year with different titles.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Ryan, Michael
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Ah Holy Jesus

Doug Wagner’s plaintive setting of the familiar Lenten tune “Herzliebster Jesu” maintains the melody in the top voice throughout, with flowing eighth notes and supportive harmony layered beneath.

Composer: Traditional
Arranger: Wagner, Douglas E.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Lorenz Corp.

Easter Alleluias

This is an energetic SATB Easter anthem with infectious rhythms and can be done with organ or piano accompaniment, or that plus 3-5 octaves of handbells, or simply with choir and handbells alone. Ample alleluias, as you'd expect, plus snippets of other text ("Where have they taken my Lord?"; "He is arisen from the grave!")

Composer: Behnke, John
Octaves: 3-5
Level: NA
Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers

Easter Alleluias

Crown Him King of Kings

Arranger Bill Ingram beautifully combines this well-known praise and worship song with the stately hymn “Crown Him with Many Crowns” to form a very worshipful medley.

Composer: Damazio, Sharon & Elvey, George
Arranger: Ingram, Bill
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2+
Publisher: Ring Praise Publications

Crown Him King of Kings

Easter Hymns

Festive hymn settings for the Easter hymn tunes CRUCIFER, EASTER HYMN, SALVE FESTA DIES, SHADES MOUNTAIN, and TRURO. These were previously published in another form as concertatos and have been adapted here strictly for use as congregational hymns.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Various
Octaves: 3 or 5
Level: NA
Publisher: Morning Star Music Publishers

Galveston

Jimmy Webb's classic, made famous by Glen Campbell, gets the full Hart Morris treatment here, with lively rhythms and plenty of techniques. It still, however, remains true to the yearning spirit of the original.

Composer: Webb, Jimmy
Arranger: Morris, Hart
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 3
Publisher: Red River Music

Galveston

You've Got a Friend In Me from Toy Story

The beloved classic from the ever-popular movie “Toy Story” comes to handbells in this sparkling arrangement by Bob Burroughs. There is plenty of action for all ringers, and it might take a little extra work, but it will be well worth it when you delight the audience at your next concert.

Composer: Newman, Randy
Arranger: Burroughs, Bob
Octaves: 5
Level: 4-
Publisher: Red River Music

You've Got a Friend In Me from Toy Story

Wonderful Merciful Savior

This modern hymn is appropriate for many types of services, and this arrangement by Bill Ingram can stand alone or accompany congregational singing. Whether a beginning group or a more experienced one with limited rehearsal time, this one is perfect for a thoughtful moment of worship.

Composer: Rodgers, Dawn & Wyse, Eric
Arranger: Ingram, Bill
Octaves: 3
Level: 1+
Publisher: Ring Praise Publications

Wonderful Merciful Savior

Vincent Starry Starry Night

The latest addition to our HANDBELLS ROCK! series is this 70's hit by Don McLean. Classic easy-listening pop at its best, this one is simply beautiful on bells.

Composer: McLean, Don
Arranger: Mallory, Ron
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2+
Publisher: Jeffers Publishing

Vincent Starry Starry Night

Strife Is O'er the Battle Won

The ultimate Easter selection! Lots of options for other instruments – trumpet, flute/C instrument, percussion – allow you to make this one your own. Use of mallets and percussive rhythm make this one a MUST for your service.

Composer: Palestrina, Giovanni P. da
Arranger: Mallory, Ron
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 3
Publisher: Jeffers Publishing

Strife Is O'er the Battle Won

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

This arrangement of the old-time ballpark classic will make you feel like putting on your jersey and grabbing your mitt. Find a flute or piccolo if at all possible. Although optional, it really “makes” the arrangement.

Composer: Tilzer, Albert von
Arranger: Burroughs, Bob
Octaves: 3-5
Level: 2+
Publisher: Composers Music Co.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Across the Pond

These creative arrangements of folk melodies are accessible both for beginning groups looking to play something familiar, as well as groups working on advancing their skills from beginner to intermediate. The titles in this set – all of them from England, Ireland, and Wales – are well-known traditional folk tunes which have also been paired with sacred texts in church settings, making them suitable for school, church, and community groups alike.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Krug, Jason W.
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 2
Publisher: Choristers Guild

Across the Pond

Wade In the Water

Wade in the Water is a collection of five familiar tunes that have “water” in their theme. The handbell part in each piece is written for 12 bells (playable for 3-6 ringers.) The accessible piano accompaniments are a lovely addition but are totally optional.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Page, Anna Laura
Octaves: 3
Level: 2+
Publisher: Choristers Guild

Wade In the Water

Endless Victory

Endless Victory is an accessible, reproducible collection of titles for Lent, Holy Week and Easter. The included selections range from level 1 to 1+ and will provide sensitive and helpful handbell repertoire for each part of your Lenten journey through Holy Week, culminating in the joyous celebration of Easter and Eastertide.

Composer: Various
Arranger: Childers, Brian
Octaves: 2-3
Level: 1+
Publisher: Choristers Guild

Endless Victory