Quatrabratsche: Vol. 4: Viola, Quartet, Score and Parts

A journey through miniature landscapes. These arrangements capture the delicacy of salon music and folk-inspired character pieces, with moments of wry humor (The Guitar Player, Puppet's Complaint) balanced against genuine tenderness (To a Wild Rose, Chanson Triste). The writing sits comfortably on the viola, allowing singers of the middle voices to shine.

Viola quartets in middle and early high school years who have moved beyond first position and are ready for modest shift work. This volume works well for ensembles seeking literature that builds position flexibility while staying grounded in accessible, recognizable melodies.

• Balance the inner voices carefully; viola quartets can sound thick without deliberate attention to texture and dynamic layering across all four parts.
• Take time with intonation in the upper register as players extend into third position; slight adjustments in ensemble tuning will pay dividends in the lyrical passages.
• Treat the character pieces as small theatrical moments; pieces like Puppet's Complaint and Funeral March of a Marionette benefit from clear narrative shape and controlled expression rather than rushing.

Program these as a suite within a chamber concert, or select individual pieces to pair with solo viola repertoire and larger ensemble works. The shorter length and narrative variety make them ideal for preview concerts, demonstration performances, or a dedicated viola ensemble showcase.

• Playing in third position with security and intonation
• Balancing four-part viola texture without muddying the sound
• Ensemble listening and adjustment across middle-voice parts
• Interpreting character and expression in short forms
• Shifting smoothly across multiple strings in a single piece