The Really Easy Viola Book

These pieces prove that elementary repertoire doesn't require compromise. Each work introduces new technical material without feeling like a lesson, and the piano accompaniments are genuinely musical rather than perfunctory, giving students the experience of ensemble playing from day one.

Fresh and encouraging. The pieces balance simplicity with genuine musicality, avoiding the mechanical quality of many beginner collections. You hear attractive melodies supported by warm harmonic contexts, making each piece feel like a complete musical thought rather than a technical exercise.

Violists in their first year of study who have mastered basic note reading and bow control on a handful of pitches. These pieces are ideal for group lessons, private study, or recital preparation when students need engaging repertoire that matches their actual technical level rather than oversimplifying.

• Balance tone production with the piano part; these pieces are designed as true duets, so work toward blend rather than dominance in the early rehearsals.
• Use the progressive arrangement to your advantage by performing them in sequence during a recital or studio class, letting the audience hear tangible growth across the set.
• Pay attention to phrasing cues from the piano accompaniment, which often contains the harmonic context that shapes where to breathe and shape each viola line.
• Record yourself playing through the full collection periodically; the step-by-step improvement becomes audible evidence of genuine progress, which builds confidence and motivation.

These work beautifully as a recital series, whether presented as a full set or selected pieces alongside other early-level viola repertoire. They also function well as supplementary material in a group viola class, offering accessible yet rewarding performance experiences that build student confidence without overwhelming technical demands.

• Reading notes in treble clef across the open strings and first positions
• Maintaining steady bow control over longer phrases
• Playing with dynamic variation and expressive phrasing
• Ensemble listening and balance in duet textures
• Sustaining focused practice on complete musical works rather than isolated exercises