A Medieval Procession
Handbell Choir - Sheet Music

Handbells, optional percussion - Level 2

SKU: MN.30-132

Composed by Charles E. Peery. Christmas, Easter, Passion/Palm Sunday. Handbell score. MorningStar Music Publishers #30-132. Published by MorningStar Music Publishers (MN.30-132).

UPC: 688670301322.

The tune Orientis Partibus is given a quaint, modal treatment reminiscent of the earliest use of this melody: as a Donkey Carol in which the congregation sang Hail, Sir Donkey! in honor of the work it did carrying Mary to Bethlehem. Grace notes mimic the donkeys braying. The ringers process while playing simple patterns, then play the body of the piece when at the tables. Hand drum, finger cymbals, and tambourine are optional. For both large and small choirs. Though the tune is best known to us as the Christmas song The Friendly Beasts, it has Lenten and Easter uses as well, making this a fine piece for Palm Sunday or Easter. Written for 3-5 Octave Handbells, with opt. Percussion.