Leroy Anderson

The Syncopated Clock

Leroy Anderson introduced this playful composition to audiences by saying he had often wondered what a clock would sound like if, instead of going 'tick-tock, tick-tock, ' it went 'tock-tick-tock. ' Arranged by Martha Lynn Thompson for 3-5 octaves of handbells, optional handchimes, and incorporating the original percussion scoring for wood block, triangle (alarm clock), cow bell, and wind whistle, this piece has a mixture of stopped techniques (Pl/mallets or TD) and ringing -- all in quick succession. Fun to ring, this easy, Level 2 arrangement is an excellent addition to any concert program.