Printed in a non-traditional 4-staff format, Air in D is a creative setting of a J. S. Bach instrumental favorite. The bottom staff is for the malleted bass line, mimicking pizzicato cello. The middle two staves carry the rest of the accompaniment, played on chimes. The top staff is the melody, played by a few ringers or a solo instrument. An assignment scheme for 13 ringers is suggested.
Air in D would be a lovely addition to any worship service or concert. You might want to let your ringers hear a recording of the orchestral original version, then take the opportunity to teach ringers the three functional "orchestral sections" (melody, bass line, and accompaniment). Such an experience can present a great moment of understanding for the group. Similarly, after hearing the contours of Bach's soaring melody sensitively shaped by violins, ringers will aspire to a higher level of musicality.
Voicing: 3, 4, 5 or 6 octaves handbells with 4 octaves handchimes and optional C instrument
Composer: J.S. Bach
Arranger: William H. Mathis
Tune: from Orchestral Suite No. 3
Level: 3
Season: General
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