Flex-Ability: Pops: Viola Book

This book solves a genuine problem: violas often sit idle during pop arrangements because most flexible scorebooks cater to the standard band and orchestra line-ups. López gives violists substantial material across all four difficulty levels, meaning your section actually plays together as a unit rather than doubling other parts. The song selection spans decades and styles, so there's something to hook every student.

Energetic and approachable. These are songs students recognize, arranged so the easier parts feel like real contributions rather than simplified padding. Even a beginner reading whole notes on the bottom line is playing a recognizable tune.

Viola sections with mixed proficiency levels, from students still learning fundamental notation through intermediate players ready for solo material. This works especially well in heterogeneous orchestra programs where violas range from first-year to advanced musicians in the same section.

• Identify which line each player will read before rehearsal begins. This isn't about permanent assignment; rotate students through different parts across multiple songs so everyone gains experience at various difficulty levels.
• Use the recorded accompaniments to build confidence in newer players. The bass line students can lock into the harmonic foundation while higher players develop their melodic independence.
• Balance tone across all four parts during sectional work. Students on the easier lines often play with less engagement; remind them that foundational harmony voices carry the arrangement.

Pull individual songs into concerts alongside classical repertoire for variety and pacing. A three-song pop set breaks up a traditional program while giving your entire viola section a chance to shine. Works particularly well as a late-season confidence builder when students need wins.

• Reading four-part viola arrangements simultaneously
• Harmonic listening and blend within a section
• Rhythmic independence from the melody line
• Transitions between different difficulty levels
• Ensemble balance across part changes