Eight Pieces For Viola and Piano: Conductor Score & Parts

This collection gives violists substantive solo repertoire without defaulting to transcriptions. Forbes writes idiomatic parts that sit naturally on the instrument while maintaining genuine musical substance, making these pieces rewarding to perform and genuinely satisfying to hear.

Each piece unfolds with the clarity of chamber music and the independence of true solo writing. The collection moves between lyrical passages and moments of rhythmic vitality, allowing violists to explore different expressive territories without resorting to keyboard transcriptions.

Violists preparing solo recital material, studio teachers seeking versatile program pieces, and ensemble coaches building solo concerto skills. These eight pieces span varying technical demands and musical character, offering options for intermediate through advanced players.

• Approach the conductor score as your interpretive roadmap. Study it before detailed work on your individual part to understand the harmonic and textural intentions across both instruments.
• Work for balance and independence from the pianist. These pieces require both instruments to carry thematic and accompanimental roles; practice sections where one instrument steps back to support.
• Mark your breathing points and phrase contours in the part itself. Clear phrasing decisions will help your pianist follow your interpretive choices.

Use individual pieces as standalone recital items or program two or three together for thematic variety. This set works equally well in academic studio recitals, community concert settings, or as audition material for advanced playing levels.

• Sustaining lyrical lines with appropriate tonal control
• Coordinating phrasing with a keyboard partner
• Managing varied textural roles within the same piece
• Reading and interpreting a conductor score alongside the solo part