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Our Review

Bells, beautiful bells! First released in 1995, the Gloriae Dei Ringers' much-loved The Bells of Christmas was re-released in 2004. It is an enduring classic; after all, the sound of well-coordinated handbells cascading in the winter air creates a timeless holiday ambiance. These young handbell artisans perform crisply and cleanly under the direction of Richard Pugsley, and the results speak for themselves.

The song selection here is strong; these numbers are almost entirely familiar, with a natural emphasis on bells-friendly works (i.e., Ding Dong! Merrily on High). The overall tone is bright, cheery, and fun. Given the somewhat limited range inherent in handbell music, some tracks require a stretch. For example, The Twelve Days of Christmas carol presents challenges at both the high and low ends. No problem for the Gloriae Dei Ringers, who add pitches up top and down below, making each individual "day" something special, and putting this track among my favorites. Excellent, too, is Masters in This Hall; again, these handbell talents employ creative techniques, including "plucked bells," to paint a masterful and stately aural portrait of the castle halls.

Looking for something traditional this holiday season? The Bells of Christmas is a fine instrumental release that fills the air with ding-dong pleasures. Magic!

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2008)

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From the liner notes:

Richard K. Pugsley, Conductor

Gloriae Dei Ringers

A sparkling and sonorous performing ensemble of young musicians dedicated to excellence in the presentation of sacred, classical, and contemporary handbell music--this is what concert-goers and listeners find in the dynamic ensemble Gloriae Dei Ringers.


From the Website:

This recording infuses homes with the unique holiday sound of handbells. Having sold over 20,000 copies, The Bells of Christmas includes such classics as Away in A Manger and In the Bleak Midwinter. The Bells of Christmas, previously known as Hear Them Ring, is an essential addition to any Christmas music collection.

Gloriae Dei Ringers

The Bells of Christmas

Artist link

Track List