Duets for Strings, Book III: Viola Book

Applebaum's duet collections work because they're written by someone who understood what intermediate violists actually needed. These pieces sit naturally under the hands, develop intonation through close harmonic listening, and provide genuine musical satisfaction without requiring advanced technique.

These duets have the purposeful quality of working music, not studies. The writing is lean and direct, asking you to play with clarity and listen intently to your partner. There's real satisfaction in locking in with another voice.

Violists who have completed the foundational material in Book 3 of a standard string method and are ready to apply their skills to pieces rather than exercises. The collection works equally well for students progressing through the String Builder or any equivalent curriculum.

• Balance the two voices carefully; the upper part shouldn't overshadow the lower line. Listen for moments where the viola book carries the primary melody.
• Use a slow first run-through to lock in unison passages. Applebaum often moves between unison and divided textures, and clarity in those shifts matters.
• Mark your own bowings before rehearsal and stick with them. Consistency between parts creates ensemble sound.
• Record yourself playing both parts separately, then listen with fresh ears. This reveals intonation issues that disappear in live performance.

These duets shine at solo and ensemble festivals, where viola combinations are often underrepresented on programs. You can also use them as warm-up material before orchestra rehearsals or feature them in studio recitals where students need genuine repertoire at this level.

• Reading at a consistent intermediate level with standard viola clefs and positions
• Intonation accuracy through harmonic listening and interval matching
• Rhythmic coordination in duet settings
• Musical phrasing and shaping within diatonic contexts
• Independent voice leading while maintaining ensemble balance