The Wizard of Oz Instrumental Solos for Strings: Viola Book & CD

These arrangements capture the theatrical warmth of Arlen's melodies without requiring advanced technical facility, letting viola players focus on phrasing and character work from day one. The recorded demonstrations provide clear models for interpretation, and the mix of famous songs with the rarely performed "The Jitterbug" keeps the collection fresh for both players and audiences.

These songs carry the magic and wonder of the original film, translated for the viola's warm, lyrical voice. Even at this accessible level, the melodies convey yearning, joy, and adventure, reminding players why they fell in love with their instrument.

Viola students in grades 2 through 3 who want to play music beyond method-book exercises while building solid fundamentals. String teachers seeking repertoire that appeals to young players and sounds polished in school concerts or assemblies.

• Shape phrases vocally even in purely instrumental passages. Arlen's melodies are built for singing, so listen to the recorded examples and sing the line mentally before playing it.
• Balance tone production across register shifts. Many of these songs move between the viola's upper and lower ranges; maintain consistent warmth throughout without forcing volume.
• Let the ensemble breathe together during ritardandos and fermatas. These songs carry dramatic weight, and synchronized relaxation of tempo creates emotional impact.
• Sustain long notes with gentle dynamic support rather than a rigid volume level. "Over the Rainbow" in particular rewards singers and instrumentalists who add slight crescendos to sustained pitches.

Program individual selections for assemblies, holiday concerts, or family engagement events where non-musicians recognize the tunes immediately. Use the collection throughout the school year as supplemental repertoire alongside your core method books, or feature a multi-movement medley in a spring concert.

• Phrasing in conjunction with lyrical melody
• Consistent tone production across the entire range
• Reading Level 2–3 notation with varied rhythmic patterns
• Responding to expressive markings (dynamics, articulation, tempo changes)
• Listening critically to recorded models and self-correcting