Viva Viola!: Viola Book

Wilkinson writes for the viola with genuine understanding of the instrument's strengths and limitations at the elementary-to-intermediate level. These 20 pieces sit naturally under the fingers without feeling like exercises, giving students the confidence that comes from playing music that actually sounds good right away.

This collection brings personality and play to viola study. Wilkinson's pieces spark imagination with creative titles and textures while respecting the natural sound and range of the instrument. The overall effect is lighthearted, rewarding, and exactly what young players need to fall in love with their instrument.

Young violists working through elementary to intermediate repertoire who need pieces that sit comfortably on the instrument while maintaining genuine musical interest. Teachers looking for recital material, lesson repertoire, or collection pieces that hold students' attention without overwhelming technical demands.

• Work through the collection sequentially rather than jumping around. Each piece builds on technical and musical concepts from the ones before it, so the progression supports steady skill development.
• Pay attention to Wilkinson's phrasing markings and dynamic choices even in simpler pieces. These details are what transform a technically correct performance into one with real musicality.
• Encourage students to listen for how each piece creates its own mood. Viola can sound lyrical, rhythmic, or quirky depending on what the music asks for, and variety keeps practice sessions engaging.

Pull individual pieces for student recitals and studio showcases throughout the school year. Alternating selections from this collection with other repertoire ensures you always have accessible but engaging performance material ready. Several pieces also work well as encores or as lighter selections on more formal concert programs.

• Reading varied rhythmic patterns and time signatures within a comfortable technical range
• Phrasing and dynamic shaping in short-form contexts
• Intonation control in first position and simple shifts
• Tone development through contrasting character pieces
• Confidence and musical expression on an instrument that often lacks dedicated beginner repertoire