As with his series of Violin Playing Books 1-5 (reviewed in an earlier issue), Robert Trory's all-encompassing set of viola books can be used from the very first lesson through to advanced levels.
Trory lays solid foundations from the beginning, like building a house, ensuring steady technical progress all the way to the top. Everything is clearly explained with little tips and illustrations to assist new skills such as shifting, double stops and various bowings.
Duets right from the start, even for scales hone ensemble skills and ensure musical enjoyment.
Trory pays tribute to and encapsulates the teachings of famous predecessors such as Mozart, de Bériot, Carse, Wohlfahrt, Dancla, Kreutzer, Mazas and many others in this indispensable set.
A serious viola student can aspire to progress from open strings to the intricacies of advanced studies and pieces in perhaps five years or less.

Mary Nemet, AUSTA Stringendo issue