Superstudies for Viola, Book 2: Viola Book

Cohen's Superstudies series has fundamentally shaped how string teachers approach technical studies, and Book 2 sustains that reputation by delivering genuine musicality alongside methodical skill-building. These twelve studies genuinely interest young players rather than bore them, which transforms practice from obligation into exploration. The balance between introducing new techniques (spicatto, hooked bows, third position) and reinforcing first-position security means students build confidence without overwhelming frustration.

Each study speaks in its own musical voice, drawing from a diverse palette of styles that keeps the collection feeling fresh across all twelve pieces. You'll find moments of playful character, lyrical passages that encourage singing tone, and technical challenges that feel satisfying to master rather than punitive.

Students in their second or third year of viola study who have completed Superstudies Book 1 and are ready to extend their technical range into new bowing styles and first explorations of higher positions. Teachers looking for studies that build genuine musicianship alongside finger patterns will find this collection both practical and enjoyable to assign.

• Record yourself playing these studies and listen back for consistency in your bow weight during the spicatto passages. Many young players alternate between too much pressure and too little, and the playback reveals this immediately.
• Work the hooked bow techniques slowly at first, isolating the hand motion separate from the notes themselves. Once the gesture becomes automatic, the notes settle into place.
• When transitioning into third position studies, mark your reference points on the fingerboard with a pencil beforehand. Remove the marks once the shifts become reliable.
• Perform one study for a friend or family member each week. These are short enough for recital programs yet substantial enough to feel like a real performance.

Assign individual studies throughout the year as students' reading and technique develop, rather than working through the book sequentially. A completed study from this collection makes a strong addition to student recitals, particularly when paired with a contrasting solo arrangement or as part of a student showcase that highlights technical progress.

• Spicatto and hooked bow articulation
• Third position fingering and hand position shifts
• First position finger patterns across the full range
• Bow control and weight distribution across different bowing styles
• Musical interpretation across varied compositional styles
• Sight-reading fluency at early-intermediate level