Go, Tell It on the Mountain (for 13-note Bells and Boomwhackers with Color Coded Notes)
by Sharon Wilson
Handbell Choir - Digital Sheet Music

This sheet music is notated for 13-note (one octave, C to C chromatic scale) instruments with Handbells on one staff and Boomwhackers® on a second staff creating an instrumental ensemble (requires one set of each instrument). Handbells play the melody while the Boomwhackers® keep a steady beat with three-note chords.

Included in this set of scores is a combined score with both instrument parts on a grand staff plus a separate score for each instrument. A note and chord reference chart is also provided. To aid in the learning and teaching of this song or for use with other instruments (such as a Ukulele), chord names are included on the grand staff and Boomwhackers® score. Lyrics are provided on the grand staff and Handbells score for sing along enjoyment or when using this arrangement as the accompaniment for a unison choir.

In addition, a complete set of scores for 4 ringers and 4 whackers is provided. Though there are multiple combinations for the number of ringers and whackers needed for any given performance, this extra set of scores is specifically designed for 8 performers with 2 notes assigned to each player. For each ringer and whacker, the 1-staff score shows only the notes they are assigned. This alternate score format may be easier to sight-read since the only notes on the staff are the assigned notes allowing the player to focus on rhythm.

This set of scores uses colored noteheads corresponding to the Boomwhackers® color scheme. If you have a set of bells or tubes with a different color scheme, "Chroma-Notes Stick Ons" can be purchased and applied so the instruments match the Boomwhackers® color scheme.

Only filled noteheads (quarter and eighth notes) are used so the notes are full color and easier to see (this does not indicate the bells need to be silenced immediately before the next beat). Also, only quarter and eighth rests are used to help visualize the number of beats per measure. All sharps and flats are displayed as well (shown in the key of C); a helpful reminder for beginning musicians.

Notes used for each instrument are as follows:
Bells ~ C D E F G A B-flat C* where C* is high C, one octave above middle C
Boomwhackers® ~ C D E F G A B-flat B
Note assignment suggestions are provided.

Other suggestions and uses:
* have both parts played by bells or both parts played using only Boomwhackers®    
* form a choir using multiple sets of bells and/or Boomwhackers®
* use as part of the music education for children at school, home, or church
* these colorful, inexpensive instruments can be enjoyed by all ages and add a fun, unique element to activities and programs: senior centers, family reunions, church retreats, home school groups, children's ministries

Boomwhackers® is a registered trademark of Rhythm Band Instruments LLC. Used by permission


Keywords: boomwhacker, boomwacker, boomwackers, pitched percussion, tuned percussion tubes, idiophone percussion, plastic tubes, elementary classroom music, supplemental education for classrooms, pitched instruments