Percussion For Worship (TM) provides information for percussionists, worship leaders, producers, teachers, and anyone desiring to learn about the use of this family of instruments in both contemporary and traditional Christian worship.
Call it the orchestra bells, glockenspiel, campanelli, or just plain "bells"---- It's an IN sound. You hear the metal-barred cousin to the xylophone in pop and alt rock (or Pomplamoose) these days...and worship music.
You might consider investing in a set of bells. They can come in handy in a variety of musical situations--- choir anthems, cantatas, hymns, and worship songs.
Glockenspiels come in two flavors: Steel and Aluminum Steel: Best sound, Heavy, Pricey Aluminum: Sounds okay until you hear steel, Lightweight, Easier on the budget
Some bands use the bells from beginner percussion kits. It works. Mike 'em up and throw on some reverb. You can get the desired effect.
My "gig glock" has aluminum bars mounted in a case which reflects the sound (like a resonator).
Check out the song, "When I'm With You" from the Great Great God CD from Gateway Worship. About three minutes into the song, many instruments (guitars, bass, keys) play a melody in octaves. After a couple of statements of that melody, I bring in the glockenspiel to give the passage that sparkling punch that the bells can deliver.
From the early days of his career as Artist in Residence at Coastal Carolina Community College to his present day work as a percussion soloist, clinician, sideman, and entrepreneur, Mark Shelton has created programs and educational services for a variety of ages.
Mark’s experience in contemporary worship percussion is highlighted in the video tutorial series Worship Team Director produced by Gateway Church. Mark writes regularly for the magazines, Worship Musician and Activate.
Mark's compositions are published by Heritage Music Press, HoneyRock, and Per-Mus Publications. A member of the Texas Commission on the Arts Touring Roster, Mark has presented "The Strike, Scrape, & Shake Show" for thousands of students in schools and libraries.
An avid runner, Mark was the overall winner in the 5000 meter run at the 2005 Texas Masters Championships and finished #102 in the 2007 Texas Marathon.
Contact Mark 214-507-6366
markshelton@verizon.net