Certain classical pieces, such as suites, and some folk pieces, such as waltzes, minuets, and processionals, are examples of viola solos. Although some famous pieces written for violins or cellos can be adapted for this mid-toned member of the stringed family, viola players often have a limited range of solo music options. Some modern viola solos are performed as part of a concerto in which the principal melody is shared a violinist and a violist. The viola has traditionally provided simpler orchestral backing harmonies, and some composers assign only bass line notes to the viola section to make room for the two violin sections’ more intricate melodies. Regardless of these drawbacks, well-played viola solos can provide a richly-toned listening experience.
Writing solo music for the viola, according to some classical composers, is more difficult due to the instrument’s technique, which differs noticeably from that of the violin. Viola players frequently use spiccato bow strokes, which are short and abrupt bow strokes that lift off the strings. This technique produces a sound and rhythm that is distinct from violin bowing techniques that use longer and smoother legato bow movements. A series of suites written Johann Sebastian Bach for the cello rather than the violin or viola is one of the most well-known options for viola solos. These suites are frequently cited as the first significant musical departures from the violas’ previous simple bass parts.
A number of viola solos can be found in folk music traditions such as Celtic and English country dances, in addition to Bach’s Baroque-era viola adaptations. Gigues are folk dance pieces written George Frederic Handel, which some music historians believe he adapted from earlier English jig songs. The upbeat and lively tempos of many gigues written as viola solos are well-known. A slower-paced minuet is another type of folk music viola solo, and this type of piece is sometimes used as a wedding march for weddings with authentic English or Celtic themes.
Solo viola music is sometimes used traditional English and Scottish country dance troupes. Depending on musician availability, some of this Scottish dance music can be performed as viola solos or duets. Many of these dance pieces are from the 17th and 18th centuries, but they are still considered creative choices for solo viola musicians.