Duets for Strings, Book II: Viola Book

Applebaum's duets work because they treat viola with equal musical respect, not as an afterthought. The writing sits well on the instrument and gives each player something interesting to do, so your violists stay engaged rather than defaulting to harmonic padding.

Musical conversations between equals. These duets unfold with clear melodic lines and natural phrasing, giving violists the satisfaction of playing real music rather than exercises. The writing sits comfortably on the instrument, letting players focus on musical expression rather than technical survival.

Viola students who have completed foundational pages of a standard string method and are ready to develop ensemble listening skills. The duet format makes it ideal for private lessons, studio group classes, or sectional rehearsals where violists need focused repertoire that isn't borrowed from violin or cello parts.

• Balance tone quality between parts by having players sit at similar distances from each other; uneven sound often reflects uneven seating rather than technique.
• Establish tempo through silent counting before starting; young duet players often rush when they can't hear an external pulse.
• Mark dynamic shapes at rehearsal so both players track the phrase arc together, preventing one part from fading while the other pushes forward.
• Record rehearsals and listen back as a pair; students often hear balance and blend issues in playback that they miss in real time.

Use these as sectional repertoire to build confidence and listening skills in your viola section before they join full orchestra. They also work well as recital pieces for young string students preparing for festival competition, since they demand more musicality than technical flash.

• Listening to ensemble balance and blend while maintaining individual line integrity
• Reading and responding to dynamic shapes within a harmonic context
• Maintaining rhythmic independence while coordinating with a partner
• Phrasing awareness across multiple staves and parts
• Intonation adjustment through ear training and harmonic feedback