Don't Stop Believin' Sheet Music Preview

Don't Stop Believin': Jazz Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

By Neal Schon / By Steve Perry / By Jonathan Cain / As performed by Journey / Arranged by John Berry

Grade: 1-2

Item: 35-PK00158164

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Description
Here's the rock classic from the group Journey in a terrific easy chart that will go together quickly. Trumpets are featured on the melody with plenty of solid full band accompaniment.

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
SKU: 35-PK00158164

More about this title

About the Composer: Neal Schon

Neal Schon founded Journey in 1973 and has remained the band's creative force throughout their decades-long career. As the primary composer and lead guitarist, Schon crafted the anthemic rock sound that made Journey one of the best-selling artists in music history, with a particular gift for writing hooks that lodge themselves in the listener's memory.

Schon's work demonstrates how pop and rock songwriting principles can engage musicians across skill levels. For educators, his catalog offers accessible entry points into contemporary music that students already know and want to play.

Why we love this

John Berry's arrangement captures the infectious simplicity of Journey's original without sacrificing the energy that makes this song legendary. Trumpets driving the melody is an inspired choice that lets young players shine while the ensemble provides a tight, manageable foundation. This chart builds cohesion fast because students are drawn in by material they recognize.

What to expect

Optimistic and driving, with the kind of forward momentum that makes an ensemble feel like they're accomplishing something real. The melody sits comfortably in the trumpet range, so players get to experience the satisfaction of carrying a recognizable tune supported by their section mates.

Who it's for

Beginning and early intermediate jazz ensembles looking for a contemporary standard that plays quickly and sounds polished. Students who grew up hearing this song will recognize it immediately, which translates to genuine investment in the rehearsal process.

How to get the most out of it

  • Nail the opening trumpet entrance. The melody needs confidence and clarity from beat one to establish the groove that carries the entire piece.
  • Keep the accompaniment locked and understated. The rhythm section should sit in the pocket and let the trumpets breathe; resist the urge to oversell the supporting parts.
  • Shape the dynamic arc across the form so the ending lands with impact. Starting slightly reserved gives you room to build toward a satisfying climax.
  • Balance the ensemble voicing so upper voices stay audible. A grade 1-2 chart often relies on close harmony, so clarity matters more than volume.

How to use it

Include this on a concert celebrating music that bridges generations, pairing it with other recognizable contemporary material or mixing it into a set of jazz standards. It works equally well as an opener that hooks the audience or as a late-program crowd-pleaser that sends people home happy.

Skills your students will build

  • Jazz ensemble voicing and balance in a compact format
  • Maintaining groove and pocket in rock-influenced contexts
  • Melody performance with accompaniment awareness
  • Quick-learning chart preparation and arrangement literacy
  • Dynamic control within a Grade 1-2 technical range

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