Shawnee Press Publishes "A Prayer for Peace"

Karissa's first published choral arrangement, "A Prayer for Peace," is available through Shawnee Press. To hear a recording and view the score, watch this video (courtesy of Shawnee Press).

Here is the description from Shawnee's website:

A winsome melody melts hearts with gentle grace in this prayer for inner peace. This folk-like tune is supported by several interesting harmonic twists, adding a distinctive quality to the overall effect. A simple canon adds variety and a mesmerizing cello obbligato makes this anthem special. Voiced for maximum efficiency, choirs of every size will find this irresistible piece to be essential for services of reflection. 

Visit Shawnee Press to learn more and order the sheet music.

Agape (Hope Publishing) Releases "My Shepherd's Amazing Grace"

Sheet music for "My Shepherd's Amazing Grace" is available through Agape (Hope Publishing). 

Featuring the hymns "My Shepherd Will Supply My Need" and "Amazing Grace," Karissa's most recent handbell piece puts a unique spin on familiar tunes. The arrangement utilizes a singing bell technique, open intervals, an echo technique, and optional handchimes which give depth and peace to melodies that remind listeners of God's love and everlasting life. 

Visit Hope's website to learn more and order the sheet music.

"Sacred Silence" Published by Jeffers

Karissa's arrangement, "Sacred Silence," is published by Jeffers Handbell Supply and is ideal for Lent or Communion in a worship setting. Incorporating the familiar tunes, "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded" and "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence," the meditative arrangement features the singing bell technique to create a unique, ethereal sound. For 3 to 5 octaves and handbells and optional handchimes.

Visit Handbell World to learn more and order the sheet music, or listen to a recording (courtesy of Jeffers Publishing) below.

Ringing Word Publishes Two Karissa Dennis Arrangements

Ringing Word has recently published two handbell pieces by Karissa Dennis, which are appropriate to play year-round.

"Cheerful Bell Medley" is arranged for 3-5 octaves of handbells that incorporates the fun, familiar Sunday school tunes "I Am a CHRISTIAN," "Happy All the Time," "The B-I-B-L-E," and "Deep and Wide." This cheerful arrangement uses exciting staccato techniques including mallets and martellato and will engage all ages!

Visit Ringing Word or Handbell World to learn more and order the sheet music, or listen to a recording (courtesy of Ringing Word) below. 

Another release is "Sweet River," which combines "Steal Away," "Swing Low Sweet Chariot," and "Deep River" into an arrangement for 3-5 octaves. Peaceful and thoughtful, this piece is sure to move ringers and listeners.

Visit Ringing Word or Handbell World to learn more and order the sheet music, or listen to a recording (courtesy of Ringing Word) below. 

Lorenz publishes "God With Us"

Karissa Dennis's first published arrangement, "God with Us," was released by Lorenz. Incorporating the familiar tunes, "God Be with You," "Promised Land," and "In the Sweet By and By," the piece is arranged for 3-5 octave handbells with optional handchimes and uses a variety of fun techniques for a beautiful effect.

Visit the Lorenz website to learn more and order the sheet music, or listen to a recording (courtesy of Lorenz) below. 

Karissa Dennis Launches New Website

Welcome to KarissaDennis.com, where you can find the latest information on my compositions and publications.

I'm open to commissions and workshops in addition to my regular ministry where I direct music ensembles in my congregation and play for worship services, weddings, and funerals. If you are interested in working with me, please reach out!

From Age to Age Performs "O Holy Night"

Professional choral ensemble From Age to Age commissioned Karissa Dennis to arrange O Holy Night for SSAATTBB and marimba for their 2011 Christmas Tour. Listen to this beautiful performance, recorded at a live concert in Brainerd, Minnesota.