- Author/Composer/Arranger: J. S. Bach, William H. Mathis
- Use: Sacred, Secular
- Octaves Used - Select One: 3 - 6 Octaves
- Level: Level 3
- Topic: Classical, General
- Origin: Germany
- Options: C Instrument
Printed in a non-traditional 4-staff format, Air in D is a creative setting of a J. S. Bach instrumental favorite. The bottom staff is for the finger-damped bass line, mimicking pizzicato cello. The middle two staves carry the rest of the accompaniment, played on chimes. The top staff is the melody, played by a few ringers or a solo instrument. An assignment scheme for 13 ringers is suggested. Air in D would be a lovely addition to any worship service or concert. You might want to let your ringers hear a recording of the orchestral original version, then take the opportunity to teach ringers the three functional “orchestral sections” (melody, bass line, and accompaniment). Such an experience can present a great moment of understanding for the group. Similarly, after hearing the contours of Bach’s soaring melody sensitively shaped by violins, ringers will aspire to a higher level of musicality.
