A Very Viola Christmas: String Orchestra Conductor Score

Bob Phillips knows exactly how to write for violas at this level. The arrangement keeps the part accessible while giving your viola section the melodic spotlight they rarely get, using four beloved carols that students recognize immediately. At Grade 2, it fits perfectly into Sound Innovations curricula and offers a rewarding holiday performance option that doesn't require rehearsal time away from technique building.

Four traditional carols unfold with the warmth and clarity that comes from solid harmonic writing and straightforward orchestration. The viola section carries melodies that sparkle without technical excess, creating a genuinely festive sound that feels both substantial and celebratory.

This conductor score serves directors programming holiday concerts with Grade 2 string orchestras, particularly those using Sound Innovations curriculum who want to feature their viola section. It works equally well for conductors seeking accessible yet genuine-sounding Christmas repertoire that doesn't patronize younger student ensembles.

• Balance the melody line between violas and upper strings so the viola part sings clearly without drowning out the harmonic foundation from lower strings.
• Stay primarily in first position as the arrangement intends; avoid shifting unnecessarily, which keeps the focus on phrasing and tone production rather than technical negotiation.
• Use the familiar carol melodies to your advantage by having students listen to recordings beforehand so they can anticipate phrase shapes and dynamic contours.
• Shape each carol individually since they have distinct characters; 'Ding Dong Merrily on High' needs brightness while 'The First Noel' calls for more lyrical warmth.

Place this in a winter concert's second half for its immediate appeal and short duration (2:30); it pairs naturally with other Grade 2 repertoire and provides a natural segue to either more elaborate carols or classical selections. The familiar melodies also make it effective as an audience-participation piece if your program includes a community sing component.

• Playing sustained melodic lines in first position on viola
• Maintaining consistent tone quality across string crossings
• Balancing viola and upper string voices in a sectional feature
• Shaping four-phrase carol structures with appropriate dynamic shape
• Coordinating rhythm within string orchestra texture at modest tempo