Still Into You: String Orchestra Conductor Score

Michael Story's arrangement captures the infectious energy of the original without overwhelming developing string players. The optional keyboard and percussion parts give you flexibility to scale the piece to your ensemble's strengths, making it equally effective as a small-group feature or full orchestra moment.

The arrangement pulses with modern rock energy while remaining grounded in orchestral textures. Straightforward melodic lines and driving rhythms create an immediate sense of fun and confidence that resonates with both players and listeners.

String orchestras at the beginning level will find this piece approachable both technically and stylistically. It works equally well for schools looking to bridge concert music and contemporary repertoire, or for ensembles seeking reliable crowd-pleasing material for public performances.

• Nail the rhythmic precision in the opening sections. Even at Grade 1.5, tight ensemble rhythm on energetic material like this reads as confident and polished.
• If using the keyboard and percussion, let them anchor the groove without overwhelming the strings. These players should lock into a steady pulse rather than pushing ahead.
• Balance the melody across your violin sections so the tune is clear and singable, not buried under harmonic accompaniment.
• Keep the tempo consistent throughout. Resist the urge to slow down during busier passages; the piece's appeal comes from its forward momentum.

This works as a concert opener or closer, especially at family and community performances where students benefit from playing something they (and their audiences) recognize. At just over two minutes, it pairs well with longer classical works to create programming variety and maintain audience engagement.

• Reading and maintaining steady rhythm in contemporary rock grooves
• Balancing melody and accompaniment textures across string sections
• Executing clear articulation and phrasing in shorter, punchy phrases
• Coordinating with optional non-string players in a mixed ensemble
• Sight-reading Level 1.5 material with rhythmic confidence