Vaughan Williams, Suite for Viola (Oxford)

The viola’s ability to move from introspective lyricism to vigorous, folk-inspired energy is at the heart of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Suite for Viola and Small Orchestra, published by Oxford University Press. Composed in 1934, this substantial work was written for the celebrated English violist Lionel Tertis, whose artistry helped establish the viola as a serious solo instrument. Rather than following the conventional concerto model, Vaughan Williams created a sequence of contrasting movements that allows the viola to reveal an unusually broad range of colours and characters.

For the serious violist, the Suite is rewarding both technically and interpretatively. Its varied movements require flexibility of articulation, secure intonation, rhythmic precision, sustained lyrical playing, and the ability to change character convincingly from one section to another. Vaughan Williams’ distinctive English musical language—with its pastoral lyricism, dance-like energy, and folk-influenced character—makes the work particularly valuable for advanced study and performance. This Oxford edition is an important addition to the library of advanced violists exploring twentieth-century British repertoire.

Key Features:

• Music by Ralph Vaughan Williams
• Published by Oxford University Press
• Suite for Viola and Small Orchestra
• Composed in 1934
• Written for renowned violist Lionel Tertis
• Substantial twentieth-century British viola repertoire
• Features contrasting lyrical, energetic, and dance-inspired sections
• Suitable for advanced violists
• Ideal for conservatory study, recitals, competitions, and concert performance

Musical Benefits:

• Develops versatility across contrasting musical characters
• Refines tonal colour, articulation, and expressive phrasing
• Strengthens rhythmic precision, intonation, and bow control
• Encourages mature interpretation of twentieth-century British music