By Michael Helman . . . Secular or Sacred Classic . . . 

This is one of Michael Helman's best startups, an accessible piece that has been used in festivals all over the country. The music mimics the pealing of tower bells, starting softly and quickly expanding into a melody over large half note chords, with marts included to emphasize the harmonic movement.  The music is in ABA form with two key changes, with A being the tower bell melody and B being a nice countermelody -- and the music ends with the A part in full quarter-note peal, with a shake/mart to finish things off.  

This can be used for any festive occasion, and is particularly suited for use by youth choirs (for whom it was originally written) and as a solo piece or general piece within any festival.

• Key of G Major and c minor, 4/4 ime signature, marked "allegro" 120-132 speed.

• Quarter notes predominate with some 8th notes; a dynamic energy throughout.

• Marts in one section are the only special techniques; there are a few simple note changes.

• Dynamics are mp up to f. This is a well-crafted piece with lots to work on in rehearsal.

© 1997  AGEHR Publishing