Jolly Old Saint Nicholas for 8-note Bells and Boomwhackers (with Color Coded Notes)
by Sharon Wilson
Handbell Choir - Digital Sheet Music

This song is one of the 5 arrangements in the collection "Five Holiday Classics for 8-note Bells and Boomwhackers."

This sheet music is notated for 8-note (one octave, C major diatonic 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 rhythm with two-note chords. Included in this set of scores is a 2-page combined score with both parts on a grand staff plus a separate 1-page, 1-staff score for each instrument.

This song is the easiest of the "Bells and Boomwhackers®" Christmas arrangements by Sharon Wilson. It uses only 6 notes and only quarter notes and rests with plenty of repetition. It could be used to introduce new players to Handbells and Boomwhackers® and help them become familiar with ringing and whacking techniques. Using a familiar tune presented in an easy format builds confidence as players become comfortable being a part of an ensemble while learning a few basic notes and rhythms.

This set of scores uses colored noteheads corresponding to the Boomwhackers® color scheme. Handbells sold by "Rhythm Band" or "KidsPlay" also use this same color scheme (other brands may use different color schemes). Using color coded notes helps beginning musicians learn to read standard sheet music notation. This set of scores is also available (separate purchase) in black and white which will print clearer if you do not have access to a color printer.

Each instrument part uses the same 6 notes: C D E F G A. The two parts are interchangeable. Though this sheet music is notated for Handbells and Boomwhackers®, this arrangement is playable by any 8-note, C major diatonic scale (one octave) instrument such as a xylophone or glockenspiel (though the color coding may not match).

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® (this would amplify the sound and allow more people to participate)
* 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, just to name a few

Permission is granted to make up to 10 copies of each score. For more than 10 copies, please purchase additional sets.

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