Leap of Faith: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

Leap of Faith solves a real programming challenge: it delivers genuine rock energy and rhythmic excitement without requiring the full drum kit and electric instruments that many teachers can't accommodate. The viola feature puts a often-overlooked voice front and center, giving your middle section players a genuine spotlight moment that rivals any flashy violin solo.

The piece opens with haunting, lyrical beauty that immediately sets a contemplative mood. When the rock rhythm enters, the energy shifts dramatically; the strings become a full rhythm section, driving forward with infectious momentum that feels fresh and modern while remaining rooted in string writing that serves the instruments well.

String orchestras at the intermediate level seeking contemporary repertoire with genuine stylistic variety. This works particularly well for ensembles with a strong viola section eager for a feature that doesn't ask them to play pizzicato or bow rapidly.

• Nail the rhythmic precision of the 3+3+2 pulse early in rehearsals. This asymmetrical grouping can feel awkward at first, but locking it solidly transforms the piece from interesting to propulsive.
• Let your viola soloist lean into the Celtic lament quality of the opening; this provides essential emotional contrast that makes the rock section land harder when it arrives.
• Balance the rhythmic responsibilities across the string sections carefully. Since strings are handling all the percussion roles, clarity in articulation and rhythmic uniformity among like instruments is essential for the pulse to read as driving rather than muddled.

Program Leap of Faith on a concert that celebrates stylistic range, positioning it between a classical work and a traditional Broadway selection to showcase your ensemble's versatility. It also works beautifully as a finale that sends audiences out energized without resorting to purely traditional repertoire.

• Reading and executing asymmetrical rhythmic patterns (3+3+2 groupings)
• Maintaining steady pulse while doubling percussion roles on strings
• Balancing lyrical solo playing with rhythmic ensemble precision
• Understanding genre fusion and contemporary string orchestration