Looking for Area 11 Read & Ring info?
Independent publishers retain their copyright, so they have full control over when, how, and where to publish their works. A work will only go permanently out of print (POP) if the publisher decides to do so.
Independent publishers can determine what permissions they will grant to those who purchases their works. Generally, independent publishers recognize the need to display their works in many different forms (printed, tablet, poster, projector, etc.) and will make this standard across all their works.
Unlike traditional publishers, independent publishers aren't restricted by market demands and trends. They are able to publish works in which only a subset of handbell choirs might be interested.
Sheet Music Plus (SMP) is by far the most popular site for arrangements of copyrighted works, particularly for pop songs and musicals.
Independent publishers will often create their own websites. These can be accessed through the profiles available on the Publishers page on this site.
The Resources page on this site has various resources for sheet music, including a section for sheet music which includes free downloads and lists of works for certain genres or ensembles. These lists cover works across many different distributor websites, making it easier for you to find what you're looking for.
New music is posted in the Handbell Sheet Music Facebook group by independent publishers on a nearly daily basis. It's a great place to stay updated on what's new and also a great place to connect with composers and arrangers directly.
Vreana publishes a monthly newsletter that includes:
New music published the previous month (a summary of the posts in the Handbell Sheet Music Facebook group)
Featured sheet music (music for upcoming holidays or previously published music that has some timely significance)
Upcoming events related to sheet music or independent publishers
Other news (mostly site-related including updates or highlights)
You can sign up for it here.
Anyone can submit a new title request here. The list of requests is publicly available in the Lists section of the Sheet Music page.
In addition to purchasing works from independent publishers, you can also support composers and arrangers by providing feedback on sheet music drafts. Host a Sneak Peek & Critique event to see works before they hit the market and give valuable feedback to composers and arrangers to help them create quality products.