Don't Stop Believin': Score
As performed by Journey
Words and music by Jonathan Cain, Neal Schon, and Steve Perry / arr. Bob Phillips
Grade: 3
Item: 00-PR-0002785
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Description
From the hit TV shows, Glee and American Idol, Journey's timeless tune will delight audiences. First debuted in 1981, this classic rock piece has been used in many movies as well. Arranged to convey the authentic sound of rock and roll, every player gets a shot at the melody they know so well and there is really nice third position playing for the first violins. Very cool drumset and piano parts are included.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Don't Stop Believin': Score comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Pop Intermediate String Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
152
SKU:
00-PR-0002785
More about this title
About the Composer: Jonathan Cain
Jonathan Cain joined Journey in 1980 as keyboardist and co-writer, bringing a gift for melody and harmonic sophistication to one of rock's most enduring bands. His compositions have shaped the sound of arena rock and remain central to the band's identity across decades of touring and recording.
Why we love this
Bob Phillips has crafted an arrangement that honors the song's iconic status while giving every section of the orchestra a moment with the melody. The inclusion of authentic rock elements (drumset and piano) alongside traditional string writing makes this a genuine crowd-pleaser that doesn't feel watered down for students.
What to expect
Electric and buoyant, with the unmistakable energy of 1980s rock filtered through the warmth of acoustic strings. There's a sense of celebration built into every phrase, from the instantly recognizable opening to the triumphant moments when the full ensemble locks into the main theme.
Who it's for
String orchestras at the intermediate level looking for repertoire that connects with audiences and engages students with music they already know. This works equally well for concert programming or competition, and appeals to players who sometimes feel disconnected from contemporary styles.
How to get the most out of it
- Nail the unison opening with precision; the impact of this famous hook depends on rhythmic tightness across all players.
- Balance the keyboard and drumset so they anchor the groove without overpowering the strings; this is a rock song, not a percussion feature.
- Work the third position passages in first violin deliberately; clean shifts and confident intonation in that register seal the authenticity of the arrangement.
- Encourage players to listen to the original recording and capture the emotional lift and forward momentum that makes this song memorable.
How to use it
Program this as a second-half opener to shift the energy and mood of a concert, or pair it with other pop arrangements to create a themed set that bridges classical and contemporary repertoire. It's also an excellent choice for pops concerts or school assemblies where you want to connect with families beyond traditional music education circles.
Skills your students will build
- Reading and executing third position passages on upper strings
- Balancing melody across multiple orchestral sections
- Maintaining rhythmic groove and forward momentum in a rock idiom
- Ensemble synchronization with non-traditional rock instrumentation (drumset and keyboard)
- Intonation control in shifted positions under tempo