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Chimes

Shop hand chimes at West Music!

We carry choir chimes instrument sets and chime trees

In addition to producing beautiful, enchanting sounds, chimes are tuned percussion instruments that even beginners with no musical training can pick up and play within a few minutes. Their ease of use makes percussion chimes an excellent way to introduce young kids to musical sounds and the joy of playing an instrument. This music category includes classic designs like tree and wind models. However, we regularly expand offers to include bell trees, handhelds, and tubular bells. You can find a style of chime that’s perfect for any setting. For example, our handheld items are ideal for group play activities, while single-row bar types shine during an individual performance.

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You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number( i.e. "123456") to the end of our URL (i.e. westmusic.com/123456).

If you cannot view the products in this category, PLEASE CLICK HERE

Your network or browser security settings may be blocking the products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

1. To place your order over the phone, call us Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm CST at 1-800-397-9378.

2. Shop via a different browser or network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).

3. Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist js.klevu.com.

4. You can also click here to access our digital catalog. Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product, click a link to navigate the product detail page (product pages will load normally), and add it to your cart. You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number (i.e. "400278") to the end of our URL (i.e. Westmusic.com/400278).

Percussion Chimes

Percussion chimes, an enchanting family of musical instruments, bring a shimmering, resonant quality to any musical composition or performance. From the delicate tones of hand chimes to the cascading sound waves of bar chimes and the ornate melodies of the bell tree, percussion chimes offer a spectrum of textures that captivate listeners. Also known as a chime tree, these instruments find their place in various settings, including orchestras, music therapy sessions, classroom environments, and personal meditation practices. Let’s explore the diverse world of percussion chimes and the unique characteristics that make them an integral part of the percussionist's toolkit.

Types of Percussion Chimes

In their most basic form, chimes consist of metal tubes or bars suspended vertically, struck with a mallet, or moved through the air to produce sound. The resulting tones are rich in overtones, creating a complex and ethereal sound that evokes tranquility and space. Chimes are used in various musical genres, from classical compositions and film scores to ambient music and sound healing practices, underscoring their versatility and appeal.

Versatility of Percussion Chimes

Percussion chimes, including bar chimes and chime trees, are a staple in percussion ensembles and solo performances, adding texture and atmosphere to the musical landscape. Bar chimes consist of a series of metal bars arranged in a row and struck with a mallet to create a cascading sound effect reminiscent of gently falling rain. The chime tree, or bell tree, sets chimes vertically, allowing melodic play and intricate proper patterns resembling a sparkling cascade.

Wind Chimes: Creating Atmospheric Effects

Wind chimes are beloved for their ability to produce a sustained, tinkling sound that fills the air with a sense of wonder and magic. Often used to accentuate moments in music or to create transitions, wind chimes can be played with varying intensity to match the mood of the piece, from the subtlest whisper to a full, resonant shower of sound.

The Bell Tree: Melodic and Visual Appeal

The bell tree combines the concept of chimes with a melodic capability, arranging metal bells in a graduated sequence that can be played to create scales and melodies. This instrument adds a visually stunning element to performances with its elegant form and the intricate sounds it produces. The bell tree is often featured in orchestral and ensemble settings for its unique tonal qualities and the ornate melodies it can weave into the fabric of the music.

Hand Chimes: Interactive Musical Experience

Hand chimes bring the resonant beauty of chimes into a more personal, interactive format. These instruments are designed to be held and played with the hands. They allow for a direct connection between the player and the sound, making them especially popular in educational and therapeutic settings. Hand chimes produce a pure, bell-like tone that can teach musical concepts, accompany singing, or facilitate relaxation and mindfulness exercises.

The Impact and Applications of Percussion Chimes

In their various forms, Percussion chimes offer musicians a unique tool for adding depth, texture, and atmosphere to their musical creations. From the interactive experience of hand chimes and the melodic possibilities of the bell tree to the ethereal soundscapes created by bar chimes and the educational utility of resonator bells, these instruments embody the harmonic convergence of metal, air, and human touch. Whether used in a concert hall, a classroom, or a meditation space, percussion chimes continue to enchant and inspire, proving that sometimes the most profound musical experiences come from the most straightforward sources.

Author: Aarron Hansen