This page highlights new works INCLUDING THOSE specially composed for the British Viola Society.
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“Weights and Measures ” by American composer, Elaine Fine.
In this arrangement for two violas, the pitches and rhythms of the upper part remain the same as the solo “Weights and Measures,” but some of the articulations and dynamics have changed. The top voice is an exercise in melodic writing within limits: Elaine uses only stepwise motion and pitch repetition (at pitch and at the octave).
Elaine made these arrangements as a way of hopefully transitioning from playing alone during the time of Covid-19 to playing music in small groups later in 2021.
The music is here to download without charge:
Elaine Fine-W&M_Two_Violas_Single_Pages
Jenny Jackson
‘Leading Lines’ (2016) for viola ensemble/ quartet
Leading Lines is a set of four short, contrasting pieces for viola ensemble or quartet. The first piece is mostly in unison and introduces the idea behind the title of connecting ‘threads’ or ‘leading lines’ that pass between the parts. In art, ‘leading lines’ are lines that guide your eye through the painting or photograph and, in these pieces, the focus of attention is often passed between the four parts as suspended notes, parts of tunes or textural punctuation. In this respect, all parts are equally important although the majority of the more technically challenging melodic interest is given to Parts 1 & 2. The second piece is lively and rhythmic with constantly changing meter. The third piece capitalises on the wonderful sound a viola can make on the lower strings, with a slowly creeping and surging texture which evolves into beautiful solos with swelling accompaniment. The fourth piece demands bold, confident playing and is marked ‘Hack & slash – violent!’. This piece requires a good, strong sense of rhythm and an attacking playing style.
Parts 1 & 2 have occasional Solos (one player) where the parts divide. If performed by quartet, the Solos must be played. It may be necessary to limit the number of players per part during Solo passages if there is a large ensemble. Parts 3 & 4 are easier and demand less position shifting.
For a sample of the Score, click Leading Lines – Full Score (selected pages)
Duration: approximately 10 minutes
Difficulty: approximately ABRSM Grade 6 – 7
Cost for score & parts (digital download) £10
Email Jenny to arrange a bank transfer or PayPal payment: jennyjacksoncomposer@yahoo.com
Leading Lines was written for the British Viola Society © Jenny Jackson 2016
