At ChimeWorks, we are reviewing handbell pieces that may be played on handchimes effectively. All the titles which we recommend under Handchime Ensembles have been reviewed and approved for handchime use. Under the product description, you may find a note of Caution which means that either the work should be played a bit slower than the suggested tempo to eliminate the percussive sounds that handchimes can make if rung too quickly or that there is a technique used in the score that is not recommended to be used with handchimes.
Not all ringing techniques and articulations that are performed on handbells may be performed on handchimes due to handchime design and the stresses that may be put on the tines of the handchime tube. The following techniques that may be used are: Ring, Damp, Finger Damp, Gyro, LV, Swing, Vibrato and a Mallet Strike (while the handchime is held) in the air.
Some ringing techniques cannot be used with handchimes either because they are damaging to the instrument or the handchime design does not allow the technique to be properly executed. We’ve created the chart below for easy reference in substituting ringing techniques on handchimes:
Click here to learn more about ringing techniques on handchimes.
Is it proper to mallet the large bass handchimes in a rack? I have seen it with Malmark but am not sure with the Schulmarich. Do you know who would know the answer to this? Thanks!
Our apologies on our tardy response. All makes of lower handchimes should be able to be malleted with caution while using a rack. It would be best to check with your manufacturer. There is a rack available to hold the lower fifth octave – http://www.malmark.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=154_173&products_id=1286 We hope this information is helpful.