Integrating Pop Music and Diverse Composers into the Beginner Viola Studio

Today’s young violists want to play music that reflects their world—and too often, our teaching materials don’t. While there’s been progress in programming works by women and underrepresented composers, studio repertoire still leans heavily on the classical canon. My students often ask for pop songs, yet most available arrangements are awkwardly keyed, lack accompaniment, and fail to connect emotionally.

This session introduces a new teaching resource: beginner viola-friendly arrangements of pop, jazz, and contemporary tunes by women and underrepresented composers, each paired with a specific technical or musical goal. Modeled on the Suzuki Book 1 sequence, these pieces complement traditional methods while offering inclusive, recognizable, and motivating repertoire.

Inspired by Rachel Barton Pine’s Music by Black Composers, the collection features clear notation, comfortable beginner keys, readable rhythms, and optional piano or digital tracks—making it practical for both private and group settings.

The 25-minute presentation will showcase selected arrangements, demonstrate teaching strategies, and share the pedagogical reasoning behind each. A brief Q&A and feedback form will invite attendees to help shape the project’s next phase.

Sample works in progress:
• “You Belong With Me” – Taylor Swift (Hooked bowing, D major)
• “Empire State of Mind” – Jay Z/Alicia Keys (Syncopation, G major)
• “What Was I Made For?” – Billie Eilish (Phrasing, A minor)
• “ABC” – Jackson Five (String crossings, D major)
• “My Shot” – Lin-Manuel Miranda (Subdivision, 4/4)

This resource is about more than pop—it’s about giving every student music that feels relevant, joyful, and worth practicing.