Description

Ding Dong Merrily On High Trio

A Trio for Hammered Dulcimers: this arrangement of “Ding Dong Merrily On High” is as fun to play as it is quick to learn!

Difficulty:

• Intermediate/Advanced

Instrument Range:

• Parts 1 & 2: 16/15
• Part 3 requires F³ and C³

Duration:

• Approximately 2:30 minutes at 62 bpm.

 Listen to the preview here:  https://youtu.be/2x_OnBK8YzE

Description:

The arrangement opens with the line “the Christmas bells are ringing” and introduces a bell motif that continues beneath the melody, which alternates between Parts 1 and 2. The bells return before letter B, where Part 3 takes over the melody. The second chorus soars with a descant and chiming bells, then moves into an introspective minor verse. After a modulatory sequence, the melody re-emerges in the bright new key of C major. A triumphant ending punctuates the final, resounding proclamation: “Christmas bells are ringing!”