Musical Musings~ Reflections on Sunday’s Music

Musical Musings~ Reflections on Sunday’s Music
November 10, 2013
 
  1. Magnificent Bells
The handbell choirs of Beulah will take a key part in this Sunday’s worship service at 11 AM. “All Creatures Of Our God And King” will be played at 11 AM sharp and is arrangement of the popular tune Lasst uns erfreuen.  The theme can be found in the lower bells while the upper bells decorate the theme through triplets, cluster chords and rhythmic patterns.  
Next, the bells will enhance our hymn of praise titled “Christ Is Made The Sure Foundation.” Here, the bell techniques of the shake and thumb damp are featured.
“Amazing Grace” is a favorite of many Christians and this Sunday this arrangement will not disappoint as it will begin with the Singing Bell Technique. I encourage everyone to carefully listen for the resonant, hollow sound that will fill the room to begin the work. The piece is set in 4 verses. Verse 1 includes the theme in chimes and bells above the singing bell technique. Verse 2 is a setting of the theme in extended block chords. Verse 3 continues the block chords but now also the composer incorporates the echo technique, a light tapping of the bell to the pad. Verse 4 is similar to the first verse but ends with suspended bells being struck.  As you watch the bells play, it is helpful to remember that the teamwork that each of the ringers employs is a result of the grace of God. God has redeemed all of us through His death and resurrection  and as a result we receive what we do not deserve-eternal life. Playing the handbells is a wonderful way to celebrate our eternity in Christ!
                                                                                    ‘til Sunday-Robert Morehead
 
Other music selections:
 
Gathering Music: 
Variations on America –Arr. Giamanco
Introit: The Lord Is The Only Strength-Babawi/Campbell  
Special Music:  Lord, Whose Love In Humble Service-Arr. Ingram
Hymn of Response:  A Living Sacrifice
Instrumental Offering:  Simple GIfts
Hymn of Dedication:  My Country, “Tis Of Thee (#561)
Postlude:  Variations On The Star Spangled Banner – Dudley Buck
                        Fughetta-Allegro Assai
Sunday’s musicians:
1 BREATHE! Bells
2 Jeremy Bosse, organist
3 Chancel Bells
4 Embellishments
5 Linda Miller, rainstick
 

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