This setting of the traditional French melody "Picardy" is especially suitable for times of prayer and contemplation in the worship service. This arrangement utilizes gentle modal harmonies and counter-melodies that complement the solo line in three stanzas. The final stanza uses mallet techniques, both on and off the table, and the echo ring. The piece is quite effective with the hammered dulcimer as the solo instrument, but any wind or stringed instrument may be used. If desired, handchimes (played by a solo ringer or a group of extra ringers) may substitute for the solo instrument.
Voicing: 3 or 4 octaves handbells with optional 2 octaves handchimes
Carol Lynn Mizell's delightful setting of the Christmas carol dating from 1790 portrays the excitement of sharing the good news of Jesus' birth, and inviting all who will come to the manger to see the...
