John Leavitt has built a reputation as a composer and arranger of exceptional clarity and musicality. His choral writing consistently balances accessibility with artistic depth, making sophisticated musical ideas available to singers at every level.
Why we love this
Leavitt's treatment of this beloved Hebrew text respects the spiritual weight of the material while crafting an arrangement that sits naturally in four voices. The harmonic language supports the text's affirmation without overwhelming it, allowing the message to resonate clearly with both singers and listeners.
What to expect
The piece radiates quiet conviction. Leavitt's harmonies create moments of richness and warmth while maintaining an underlying sense of steadiness, as if the words themselves are an anchor. There's no sentimentality here, only honest affirmation.
Who it's for
This arrangement serves choirs seeking meaningful sacred repertoire with straightforward but dignified vocal writing. High school and collegiate choirs, community ensembles, and festival choirs will find this suitable for both formal concerts and interfaith or spiritual programming.
How to get the most out of it
Approach the opening with restraint. The power of this text builds gradually, so resist the temptation to enter with excessive volume or drama in the early phrases.
Balance the alto and tenor lines carefully in sections where they carry inner harmonic movement. These parts deserve attention even when not holding the melody.
Shape phrases toward the natural stresses of the text rather than imposing a rigid metric accent. Let the language itself guide your phrasing.
Consider a slight ritardando into final cadences to honor the declarative nature of 'I believe.' This creates space for the message to land.
How to use it
Pair this with other texts of faith and perseverance for a concert exploring hope across traditions. Its eight pages make it substantial enough to anchor a program section without dominating, and it works equally well as a standalone sacred offering or as part of a larger thematic concert.
Skills your students will build
Singing in Hebrew with authentic pronunciation and musicality
Blending sustained harmonic textures across four parts
Phrasing long melodic lines with attention to textual meaning
Balancing clarity of text with choral blend
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