Strictly Strings, Book 1 [Viola]: Viola Ensemble Book & German Insert

The letter-note system removes the cognitive load of traditional notation in early lessons, letting viola students focus on intonation, bow control, and listening to ensemble balance rather than struggling with clefs and staff lines. By the time students move to standard notation, they've already developed musicianship and confidence that transfers directly to more complex repertoire. The ensemble approach means every student plays musically interesting parts from day one, not isolated scales or exercises.

Approachable and encouraging without sacrificing musical substance. The repertoire respects students' ears and emotions while remaining achievable on a new instrument, creating the satisfaction of playing real ensemble music rather than exercises.

Beginning viola students in their first year of study, particularly those learning in an ensemble or group setting. The letter-note system is designed for students who have little or no prior music reading experience and benefit from a tactile, visual bridge to standard notation.

• Establish clear rhythmic clarity as an ensemble before adding dynamics or vibrato. The viola section's role in supporting both upper and lower voices is essential to ensemble cohesion.
• Balance tone production across the viola section so that sustained notes blend rather than compete. Uniformity in bow speed and weight matters more than individual projection.
• Use the letter-note cues as a teaching tool through the transition to staff notation. Point students to where they appear in each line so they can self-correct without stopping rehearsal.
• Work bow coordination among violas on sustained passages. Even slight differences in bow placement or pressure create unevenness that disrupts the ensemble sound.

Use this as your core curriculum for beginning viola in any group string setting. The 44-page format allows you to progress through the book over the course of a full school year while building technique gradually alongside ensemble repertoire. It works equally well in a classroom orchestra, after-school ensemble, or private studio with multiple students.

• Letter-note to staff notation transition
• Viola-specific bow control and tone production
• Reading and playing in C clef with guided reference
• Ensemble listening and intonation adjustment
• Sustaining notes with consistent tone quality
• Counting and maintaining rhythm within an ensemble