Bridesmaids' Procession

This prelude for three-octave handbells was composed and first performed at my wedding, where the handbell choir at St. Matthew the Apostle Parish in Randolph, New Jersey led the procession. It features an easily-memorized eight-measure opening that can be repeated as needed so the handbell choir can join the procession - whether for a wedding, a church service, a concert, or any other ceremony or event. This prelude was composed for nine ringers, with two bells each and no bell changes. Creative bell assignments can achieve an effective performance with fewer ringers; assigning just one bell to some ringers can feature additional performers.