Practical Viola School: Book, Strings

Sitt's Practical Viola School delivers exactly what its title promises: a grounded, sequential approach to viola fundamentals without sacrificing musical interest. The 72-page arc moves students through positions, shifts, and common technical challenges in a way that feels organic rather than arbitrary, making it a resource that rewards consistent use throughout the early-intermediate years.

Practical and purposeful. Sitt's writing avoids busywork while keeping technique grounded in real musical problems. Each exercise feels like it exists for a reason, whether building position security, refining bow control, or opening access to higher registers.

Viola students in their second or third year of study, and those transitioning from violin or cello who need a dedicated method addressing viola-specific concerns. Directors building string programs will find this a trusted supplement to their ensemble rehearsals.

• Establish consistent left-hand position from the opening exercises; Sitt's early material builds the habits your students will rely on when passages become more demanding.
• Pay attention to the bow distribution in longer note values. Students often rush through whole notes and half notes, so mark exact bow speed targets.
• Use varied vibrato only where Sitt indicates or where musical phrasing calls for it. The clarity of his compositional voice shines brightest when technique stays transparent.

Assign sections systematically during the school year, pairing exercises with corresponding repertoire in your chamber or orchestra groups. A student working through the position studies will immediately apply those skills in sectional rehearsals, reinforcing both the method and the ensemble material.

• Secure left-hand position work and intonation across all positions
• Controlled shifting between registers
• Bow distribution and weight management for sustained tones
• Reading and executing the alto clef with fluency
• Vibrato control and placement
• Foundational left-hand independence for double-stop accuracy