Sunday, September 20, 2009

Viola Ensemble!!!!

There is nothing better, and I mean nothing, than the dulcet sounds of 14-16 violists playing the light classics.  It just shows viola versatility!!  We are an inner voice, an outer voice, a bass voice, a soaring melody, the rhythm section, a dessert sauce, a lethal weapon.....

Doing arrangements of things for instruments other than for what was originally written is an age-old tradition.  Even Berlioz would substitute instruments, back in the day.  As violists, if we ever want to get a shot at some of the great melodies, we have to take matters into our own hands!!!  All my students are required to do a transcription.  It can be anything from Van Halen to Van Beethoven, as long as it features the viola in some way.  This week, I'm working on the Radetzky March for the viola ensemble.  Requisite clapping will be achieved by audience members, or each violist slapping his/her stand partner upside the head with their bow.

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