Description
Scored for SATB Choir with Piano and Handbells, Dorothy has given us a Christmas gem. Based on the poem by Longfellow, each choral section has a solo portion of the text that changes the tune with each stanza. After the sections sing their respective stanzas, the work then brings all four parts together to present the last stanza, with each part singing its own tune. There are a few minor changes in the final stanza's presentation to accommodate the interplay of all four vocal lines, but the result is very compelling. Added to this intriguing manuscript is the addition of handbells (hence the word painting of "I heard the bells?") which add color and whimsy to the work. The anthem comes to its end with a dialogue of ensemble vs. choir, then quietly dissipates with the bells chiming on the final measures.

Editor's Notes
Scored for SATB, there is a soprano and alto divisi on the last section, work to ensure that this divisi is balanced. Use of 3 octaves of handbells will make this piece shine even more. It is also permissible to change the line to be more inclusive (though purists will object) to 'peace on earth, goodwill to all.' The 'a cappella' section will take a little more work to flesh out the differences in each choral section's tune, but the piece should come together rather easily. One should make sure that the bell ringers play the final three chords with bells suspended (+) to achieve the desired effect.

User License
The purchaser of this file has permission to print one copy of the file for each license purchased. The electronic file may not be sold, copied, or transferred to another person or church. The purchaser may make a backup copy of the file.

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