Exaltation, Reflection and Dance

Written for  3 to 6 octave handbell choir and 3 to 5 octaves of handchimes.  Level 5.  Not at all for the feint of heart, Michael Helman’s three-movement masterwork is a true tour de force for your ensemble. The piece opens with the “Exaltation,” which alternates between a stately Baroque feel and a more modern syncopated rhythm, creating an atmosphere both old and new. This segues to the gentle “Reflection,” set in a lilting 9/8 time, which then gives way to the driving rhythms of the “Dance,” set primarily in a minor 7/8 time, but with occasional measures in 6/8, 3/8, and 4/4 thrown in for good measure. An outstanding musical statement for your advanced ensemble!