5 Octave Handbell Ensemble / L5
[5,(5),mallets]
PDF Sheet Music: fz Ensemble License
For handbell ensembles who are looking for a challenge, Clarion Festival Overture's difficulty rating of Level 5 is just a hint. This fast-paced and exciting work requires a variety of techniques, including soloistic ringing, on-the-table and suspended malleting, two styles of plucking, and marts. Melodies and themes intertwine in fugal patterns and are often presented in three-level polyphony.
Originally conceived for organ with the intention to invite the to organist dance on his pedal board, Clarion Festival Overture brings that instrument's richness to a new medium. The work begins in 5/4, but doesn't stay there for long, soon switching to 6/4 and 4/4. Clarion Festival Overture also includes extended sections using the complex meters of 11/8 and 7/8, and counting guides appear in the score (3+3+3+2) to assist the ringers and conductor in rehearsal. Tricky rhythms, syncopation, and off-beat accents will keep ringers on their toes.
For ensembles fortunate enough to have five octaves of handchimes at their disposal, Clarion Festival Overture will show off their lowest octaves.
Clarion Festival Overture features robust themes and complex style—a feast to the ear and the eye that audiences will enjoy right up to its heart-pounding finale.
"Composed for a friend and mentor, Michael Surratt, celebrating 25 years as the Director of the Allegro Handbell Ensemble at the Union Church of Hinsdale, Illinois."
Instrumentation Required
- 5 octaves handbells
- 5 octaves handchimes (opt.)
- Mallets
AGEHR Level 5
Music by Daniel M. Reck.