Hyperdrive: String Bass
By Ralph Ford
Grade: 2.5
Item: 00-PC-0015471_SB
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Description
Hyperdrive: First discussed by science fiction author Isaac Asimov in the 1940s, this term refers to a device which allows a vehicle in space to travel faster than the speed of light, and to describe said state of travel through space; i.e. the act of entering hyperspace. Full of energy, exciting rhythms, double stops, and 'jazz-like' articulations, this piece will surely propel students and audiences into hyperdrive. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Hyperdrive: String Bass 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:
Belwin Beginning String Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
148
SKU:
00-PC-0015471_SB
More about this title
About the Composer: Ralph Ford
Ralph Ford has built a distinctive career as a composer, arranger, conductor, and clinician, with nearly three decades of university teaching behind him. His professional trajectory spans music, media, and broadcast work; he has served as an exclusive composer and arranger for Belwin/Alfred Music, producing over 250 titles for orchestras, concert bands, jazz ensembles, and marching bands that are performed by school, university, military, and professional ensembles worldwide. His early experience as a student arranger in Panama City, Florida at age fifteen evolved into staff positions at Troy State University, where he taught orchestration, arranging, theory, and applied studies while earning his Master of Science degree in 1988. Beyond concert music, his media work includes live radio broadcasts, television scoring, commercial jingles, and news music packages for national network affiliates.
Why we love this
Ford captures the breathless momentum of the concept without sacrificing clarity or accessibility. At Grade 2.5, the piece delivers genuine excitement through rhythmic drive and smart articulation choices rather than technical extremes, making it equally rewarding for developing orchestras and festival judges who appreciate writing that respects student ability while demanding musical maturity.
What to expect
Hyperdrive launches from the first measure with forward momentum and urgency. The combination of rhythmic vitality, jazz-influenced articulation, and strategic double stops creates a propulsive sound that feels contemporary and alive, capturing the electrifying sensation of breaking through into hyperspace.
Who it's for
This score and parts are ideal for Grade 2.5 string orchestras ready to tackle repertoire with genuine character and energy. It works equally well for classroom ensembles seeking a piece that engages both players and listeners, or for orchestras preparing for contest and festival performance.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the rhythmic intensity in early rehearsals by isolating the drive sections with just rhythm section and basses; lock that foundation before layering melodic material.
- Treat the jazz-like articulations as conversation, not decoration. Coach students to lift on the marked staccatos while sustaining the legato passages, creating contrast within the energy rather than playing everything at the same intensity.
- The double stops are marked strategically to amplify momentum. Have upper strings practice them separately at tempo to build confidence, then reintegrate into full sections.
- Use the recorded accompaniment or a click track during early rehearsals to keep the propulsive feel steady; students will naturally want to rush this material.
How to use it
Program this as an opener or closer to inject energy into a concert; its Grade 2.5 level allows it to anchor a mixed program without overshadowing lighter pieces nearby. It also pairs naturally with other light concert repertoire from the Belwin Beginning String Orchestra series, or serves as an ideal festival selection for ensembles wanting to showcase rhythmic precision and articulation control.
Skills your students will build
- Jazz-influenced articulation and phrasing
- Rhythmic precision and forward momentum
- Double stop intonation and clarity
- Contrast between staccato and legato passages
- Ensemble balance with rhythmic subdivisions