U.Play.Plus: More Pops: Viola Book

López's arrangements here honor the original energy of these pop and rock hits while writing viola parts that sit naturally in the middle of mixed ensembles. The flexible structure means you can perform with full sections or pull together a quick ensemble from whoever shows up, and every configuration sounds complete.

Fresh and immediately engaging. These arrangements capture the driving rhythm and hook-heavy appeal of the original songs without stripping away musicality. Viola parts weave between supporting harmony and occasional melodic moments, keeping the section active and invested throughout.

Viola players in middle school or early high school orchestras and flexible string ensembles who want to tackle contemporary repertoire alongside winds and percussion. This book works equally well for students in general music ensembles or heterogeneous groups where standardized voicing doesn't exist.

• Balance the melody line against the harmony parts; violas often support the harmonic foundation, so lock in with your section mates on parts B, C, or D while allowing the lead voice to project forward.
• Use the cue notes as your roadmap when instruments are missing from the ensemble; knowing what the full four-part harmony should sound like helps you fill gaps confidently.
• Lean into the rhythmic character of each tune; these pop and rock songs thrive on pocket playing rather than classical precision, so feel the groove alongside the rhythm section.

Build a spring concert around the entire U.Play.Plus series if your ensemble includes mixed instrumentation across woodwinds, brass, and strings. These ten titles pair well with one classical/traditional piece to anchor the program. Alternatively, pull individual arrangements for pep rallies or community events where flexibility in who performs matters more than a locked-in instrumentation.

• Reading two-line scores with flexible harmonic roles (melody vs. harmony parts)
• Blending viola sound with winds and brass in mixed ensembles
• Maintaining rhythmic precision in pop/rock idioms with rhythm section accompaniment
• Interpreting cue notes to balance parts when musicians are absent
• Adapting articulation and tone to contemporary genres