Knox: Viola Spaces: Contemporary Viola Studies, Vol. 1

Category: Viola Solo ** Title: Viola Spaces: Contemporary Viola Studies ** Volume 1 ** Composer: Garth Knox ** Publisher: Schott Music Edition ** Difficulty: A5/A6.

"These pieces, or spaces, are really concert studies designed to give players the chance to learn and explore contemporary viola techniques. Each space presents and develops one specific technique, and is accompanied by a short technical explanation. As well as being teaching aids, and useful concert pieces, my hope is that these studies will be enjoyable to work on, fun to play, and stimulating to listen to." - composer Garth Knox (from the Introduction)

Geared towards players who may be a little nervous about playing contemporary music, Viola Spaces is intended to methodically put those fears to rest by tackling contemporary techniques one by one. The studies deal with concepts like quarter-tones, harmonics, and playing sul tasto, among others. Composer Garth Knox, a violist himself, has released a recording of Viola Spaces on the Mode Records label. On his website, www.garthknox.org, he states that Viola Spaces is also available for viola duo or trio, in addition to the solo version sold here.

Contents:
* 1. Sul Ponticello - "Beside The Bridge"
* 2. Sul Tasto - "Ghosts"
* 3. Glissando - "One Finger"
* 4. Pizzicato - "Nine Fingers"
* 5. Tremolo - "Rapid Repeat"
* 6. Harmonics - "Harmonic Horizon"
* 7. Quartertones - "In Between"
* 8. Bow Directions - "Up, Down, Sideways, Round"

This item also contains a pull-out section of detailed background and performance notes on each piece.