Karen Tuttle’s Coordination has profoundly influenced generations of violists, emphasizing physical ease, emotional awareness, and expressive authenticity. While many of Tuttle’s direct students are now established figures in the field,...
We are so excited to welcome you to the 2026 American Viola Society Festival! Check in and pick up your festival credentials, materials, and swag bag! Registration is the first...
Surface-level sound? Problems getting to the frog? Crooked bow? When learning how to have a mature viola sound, some students learn best from picturing an image, while others need to...
This lecture-recital introduces a remarkable rediscovery in the viola repertoire: the Suite for Solo Viola (1940) by German composer Reinhard Oppel (1878–1941). Written in the final year of his professorship...
This interactive workshop will be an introduction to Body Mapping, a somatic modality which grew out of the Alexander Technique. Developed by Barbara Conable in the 1990s, Body Mapping helps...
This lecture explores nine little-known viola concertos by Alessandro Rolla that survive in incomplete form, offering a rare glimpse into both the challenges and possibilities of reconstructing lost repertoire. These...
Peggy Glanville-Hicks' Concerto Romantico for Viola and Chamber Orchestra is a powerful gem of viola writing that most violists have never heard. Premiered in 1957 by Walter Trampler, Concerto Romantico...
This lecture explores the influential teaching legacy of renowned violist Bruno Giuranna, whose contributions to viola pedagogy have shaped generations of performers and teachers worldwide. Through a structured exploration of...
Amy Marcy Cheney Beach (1867–1944) stands as a monumental figure in the history of American classical music, renowned for her achievements as the first American woman to gain widespread recognition...
In this workshop, I will explore the profound benefits of Qigong for viola players, emphasizing physical wellness and enhanced performance. Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice involving gentle movements and breath...
Selected viola ensembles take the stage in this special recital showcasing collaborative artistry and diverse repertoire. Featuring outstanding groups from the festival community, the Ensemble Invitational celebrates the richness of...
We invite you to explore the exhibitor hall and connect with distinguished luthiers, bow makers, publishers, and vendors from across the viola world. Discover exceptional instruments, browse sheet music and...
Over the past 30+ years, longer than I have been playing the viola, I have been exploring my family tree, absorbing the experiences of my ancestors, learning stories from my...
The Community-Centered Violist highlights the collaboration of Kimia Hesabi and Tiffany Richardson as violists, teaching artists, and arts administrators. The session showcases our community-centered work in various settings and offers...
Violist Lynne Ramsey works with selected festival participants in this engaging masterclass, offering insight into technical refinement, musical interpretation, and expressive performance. Attendees are invited to observe her thoughtful teaching...
Observe master teachers in action during these open lessons with festival participants. Students will work one-on-one with Teachers in Residence in a traditional private lesson setting, while attendees are invited...
Margi Griebling-Haigh’s Bocadillos Panoramicos (2000) for viola and piano, written for her sister, is a four-movement work inspired by the sisters’ travels to New Mexico. The third movement, La Perrita...
Composer Alvin Etler (1913-1973) enjoyed a brief career as a professional oboist before turning to composition, winning consecutive Guggenheim Fellowships in 1940-41 and studying composition with the eminent violist-composer Paul...
This workshop will explore methods for finding both reliable intonation and comfort in double-stop playing using the principles of the Till Approach for String Players. Developed by violinist Sophie Till,...
Belgian composer Joseph Jongen (1873–1953), famous for his organ and chamber works, contributed significantly to the viola repertoire, yet lesser-known. Jongen collaborated with Lionel Tertis and formed the Belgian Piano...
The viola can be a punishing instrument. If it weren't so wonderful, most of us would have run away screaming long ago! Many nuggets of wisdom passed down are well...
This shared recital brings together festival artists in a program of distinctive chamber pairings that highlight the viola’s versatility across varied ensemble settings. Featuring Richard Auldon Clark with soprano Alissa...
Signature Artist Rudolf Haken leads this masterclass featuring selected festival participants, sharing his innovative approach to viola performance and technique. Drawing on his expertise with both traditional and electric viola,...
Signature Artist Marina Thibeault presents A Walk on the North Side, a thoughtfully curated program exploring reflection, transformation, and the expressive depth of the viola. Featuring Grieg’s lyrical Violin Sonata,...