We Wish You a Merry Christmas (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). Included in this set of scores is a 4-page combined score with both parts on a grand staff plus a separate 2-page, 1-staff score for each instrument.

Also included is a practice score with only the chorus. This 1-page score can be used to introduce the Handbells and Boomwhackers® and help players become familiar with ringing and whacking techniques. Using this practice score will also help players become comfortable playing in a group while learning the notes and rhythms. The two parts are interchangeable so each instrument could practice playing the melody and also the rhythmic 2-note chords.

The full score includes 2 verses of the song, beginning with Handbells playing the melody and Boomwhackers® keeping the beat with 2-note chords. The second time through the song, the Boomwhackers® play the melody while the Handbells provide rhythmic harmony with 2-note chords. The song ends with the parts alternating on the closing phrase.

This set of scores uses colored noteheads corresponding to the Boomwhackers® color scheme.  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.

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 rests are used to help visualize the number of beats per measure.

Each instrument part uses the same 10 notes: C C# D E F G A B-flat B C* where C* is high C, one octave above middle C.   Though this sheet music is notated for Handbells and Boomwhackers®, this arrangement is playable by any 13-note, C to C chromatic 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

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