This collection of 10 Christmas songs is notated for 13-note (one octave, C to C chromatic scale) instruments with Handbells on one staff and Boomwhackers® on a second staff creating a 2-part instrumental ensemble (requires one set of each instrument). For each song there is a combined score with both parts on a grand staff plus a separate 1-staff score for each individual part. A note chart is also provided for each song as well as a chord chart when appropriate.
This set of scores uses
black and white noteheads and is best suited for musicians already familiar with reading standard music notation. For beginning musicians, this same set of scores is available (sold separately) with color coded noteheads.
Only filled noteheads (quarter and eighth notes) are used so the notes are easier to see (this does not indicate the bells need to be silenced immediately before the next beat). Also, only quarter rests are used to help visualize the number of beats per measure. Lyrics are provided as well to aid in the learning and teaching of these songs.
The number of ringers and whackers needed will vary depending on the skill level of the participants. For more advanced players, each person could be assigned two or three notes. For beginners, it is best to assign one note to each person. Note assignment suggestions are provided for each song.
Though this sheet music is notated for Handbells and Boomwhackers®, these arrangements are playable by any 13-note (one octave, C to C chromatic scale) instrument such as a xylophone, glockenspiel, or recorder. For those songs with chords provided, a ukulele could be included in the ensemble.
Other suggestions and uses:
* have both parts played by bells or both parts played using only Boomwhackers®
* form a choir using multiple sets of bells and/or Boomwhackers® (this would amplify the sound and allow more people to participate)
* use as part of the music education for children at school, home, or church
* these colorful, inexpensive instruments can be enjoyed by all ages and add a fun, unique element to activities and programs: senior centers, family reunions, church retreats, home school groups, just to name a few
Each of the 10 Christmas Carol arrangements is also available separately with accompanying preview pages and audio samples.
Titles included in this collection: Away in a Manger
Bring a Torch, Jeannette, Isabella
Good King Wenceslas
I Saw Three Ships
In Little Bethlehem (Wind Through the Olive Trees)
O Come, All Ye Faithful
The Friendly Beasts
Pat-a-Pan
We Three Kings
Who Is He in Yonder Stall?
Boomwhackers® is a registered trademark of Rhythm Band Instruments, LLC, Fort Worth, TX. Used by permission.Keywords: boomwhacker, boomwacker, boomwackers, pitched percussion, tuned percussion tubes, idiophone percussion, plastic tubes, elementary classroom music, supplemental education for classrooms, pitched instruments