String Masters, Book 2: Viola Cover Image

String Masters, Book 2: Viola: String Duo & Ensemble, Collections, Va

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String Masters, Book 2: Viola Cover Image

String Masters, Book 2: Viola: String Duo & Ensemble, Collections, Va

By Edmund M. Goehring

Grade: 2

Item: 36-10370130

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Description
The String Master collections are easy to intermediate, harmonized collections of classical themes and popular tunes for young string orchestras. They are presented in such a way as to be playable with any combination of strings (as the piano accompaniment can be used to fill in any missing parts, or to strengthen weak sections), with a variety of difficulty levels available in the violin parts, thus enhancing the value of this collection. The compositions in this volume have been selected for their programmatic and educational as well as developmental values. The material has also been compiled with the viewpoint of keeping it interesting from the melodic, rhythmic and harmonic outlook, and to instill well-balanced musicianship. Suitable for trios, quartets, and string orchestras. Included in Book 2: 1. Theme from "Symphonic Poem (Liszt); 2. German Dance (Schubert); 3. Shepherd's Dance (Schubert); 4. Theme from "Ruy Blas" Overture (Mendelssohn); 5. Gavotte (Rameau); 6. Two Irish Melodies (traditional, Balfe); 7. Gavotte (Boyce); 8. Minuetto (Handel); 9. Country Dance (Gretry); 10. Minuet from "The Sorcerer" (Sullivan); 11. Suite in Three Movements (Rebikov); 12. Italian Caprice (excerpt; Tchaikovsky); 13. Old English Air (anonymous); 14. Hymn Tune (Gottschalk); 15. Slavic Dances (Dobles); 16. Masters Suite (Mozart, Brahms, Gluck).

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Additional Details
Series: LudwigMasters String Series
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
ISBN10: 1-63361-260-0
ISBN13: 978-1-63361-260-0
UPC: 659859335261
SKU: 36-10370130
Instrumentation: Flexible String Ensemble: Viola

More about this title

Why we love this

Goehring curated this collection with genuine pedagogical intention, selecting pieces that work equally well for developing musicianship and keeping students engaged. The flexible instrumentation means you can use it with whatever ensemble size walks into rehearsal, and the mix of Baroque dance forms, Romantic themes, and folk material gives you real programming variety without sacrificing musical substance.

What to expect

A journey through the classical tradition at a comfortable pace. The collection moves between the refined elegance of Baroque dances, the lyrical warmth of Romantic themes, and the straightforward charm of folk melodies, all arranged so violas carry both supporting and leading voices. Each piece invites musicality without overwhelming technical demands.

Who it's for

Viola students in beginning-to-intermediate ensemble settings who benefit from playing harmonically interesting, recognizable repertoire. This book works for students transitioning from method-based instruction into real literature, and it scales from small string trios up to larger orchestras.

How to get the most out of it

  • Balance the viola line against the other string parts during rehearsal by having violas play at full voice while you establish the harmonic foundation they're providing; pull back the dynamic only after tuning and voicing are secure.
  • Attend to the internal rhythmic life of each piece. Even simple dances contain rhythmic character that distinguishes Schubert from Rameau; encourage violas to shape phrases rather than merely sustain.
  • Use the piano accompaniment strategically to cover gaps when violin or cello parts are thin, but aim to phase it out as the ensemble solidifies so students hear the orchestral balance they're creating.
  • In the suite movements and multi-section pieces, mark clear section breaks in your parts so violas understand the formal structure and can shape transitions confidently.

How to use it

Draw from this collection throughout the year for concert variety and student confidence building. Smaller dances and hymn tunes work well as concert openers or fillers; the longer suite movements and themed selections anchor a more substantial program. Pair pieces from this book with contemporary or commissioned works to give young ensembles a historical foundation.

Skills your students will build

  • Playing harmonic accompaniment figures with tonal clarity and rhythmic precision
  • Reading multiple string parts and understanding how viola voices support the ensemble texture
  • Interpreting Baroque articulation and phrasing conventions
  • Tuning double stops and sustained intervals in a group setting
  • Responding to flexible instrumentation and adapting to missing parts

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