Sambello

The title Sambello is a combination of two words - samba and handbell - and also combines two time signatures: 7/8 and 4/4. The piece is not a samba, but it feels like dance music because of the regularity of the change from 7/8 to 4/4. Like a pyramid, the piece is built in layers, starting with a calm plateau with a chime section in straight 4/4 time. Layers are added, building to a massive middle section with all hands on deck and all guns blazing, followed by a moribund but sprightly ending. The movement of three measures of 7/8 followed by one measure of 4/4 throughout most of the piece lends a sense of urgency and anticipation followed by a short space of calm every four measures. The serene middle section of chimes offers a peaceful oasis.