SKU: BP.HB626
Arranged for 3 to 5 octave ahdnebll choir. Level 2+. Patricia Hurlbutt's arrangement of this traditional English carol is accessible for late-beginning ensembles, yet has more than enough musical substance to engage even advanced choirs. The melody moves throughout the group, giving all parts their time to shine, while easy-to-learn accompaniment figures create textural interest. Several key changes and the occasional accidental provide just enough challenge to keep all ringers busy. A great choice for your holiday season!
SKU: CF.FPS163F
ISBN 9781491163894. UPC: 680160922680.
The melody of The Friendly Beasts (“Orientis Partibus”) originated in twelfth-century France and has been attributed to Pierre de Corbeil, Bishop of Sens. The song migrated to England by the thirteenth century, where its popularity grew and in the early twentieth century the familiar English words were added. The melody has been set in both quadruple and triple meter and is presented in both meters here. Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872–1958) included the carol in his English Hymnal (1906).The words in both the original Latin and modern English versions pay homage to the place of animals in the Christmas story. The carol has also been known as The Donkey Carol and The Animal Carol.This setting is intended to reflect the Medieval origins of the melody. Some freedom of tempo would be appropriate during the “chant” version of the melody (mm. 6–18). Adding poco ritardando at m. 28, at the discretion of the director, should lead to a stricter tempo in mm. 31–53, in the manner of a medieval round dance. A gentle approach to the performance is appropriate. Finger cymbals could be added to or replace all or part of the triangle part, again at the director’s discretion.
SKU: CF.FPS163
ISBN 9781491163498. UPC: 680160922284.
SKU: LO.20-1102L
UPC: 000308035476.
With no subdivision of the beat, ringers will be able to concentrate on making music and produce a meaningful performance. This setting is also included in the collection Season of Joy (20/1116L).
SKU: LO.20-1116L
UPC: 000308035957.
A versatile new collection of delightful Christmas settings, perfect for all handbell ensembles. Titles in this collection include O Come, All Ye Faithful; What Child Is This?; The Friendly Beasts; I Saw Three Ships; God So Loved the World; Masters in This Hall; and Good King Wenceslas.
