Ave Maria - Handbells

This prayer to the blessed Mother is absolutely exquisite. Incorporating handbells and flute to complement the choir and organ, this anthem carries the heart of its message with depth and beauty. Bedford’s "Ave Maria" is a perfect anthem for Marian holy days as well as being a gem for any choir and handbell concert program.

Scripture Reference: Luke 1: 26-35

Also available:
0436FS Ave Maria (full score)
0436FL Ave Maria (flute)
0436HB Ave Maria (handbells)

There is a seren mysteriousness to this setting, which open with minor chords beneath a wandering melody, then dissolves into major as the Latin text begins in the soprano section. The opening salutation material is then sung in two parts (male.female). At the conclusion (Sancat Maria), the choir sings in vertical chords doubled by the organ. This setting has a somewhat haunting character that is attractive and not difficult.

James McCray

The Diapason

January 2005

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