C Major Scale & Arpeggio

Two octaves in the first position

This C Major Scale & Arpeggio for Grade 2 viola students covers two octaves over the four strings.

It is to be played entirely in the first position.

First, the viola student should practice the scale and arpeggio in détaché in all parts of the bow : from the middle to the tip (square position), from the frog to the middle, and then with grand détaché (whole bow détaché).

Second, the viola student can practice the scale and arpeggio in spiccato, by playing each note 4 times, 3 times, twice and finally just once.

Third, we suggest bowing patterns to be played with a strict whole bow division.

At all times, the viola student should pay attention to these very important points :

• Precise intonation
• Beautiful and resonant tone
• Good posture and bow hold
• First finger on the string
• Straight bow
• Constant bow speed and pressure

It is a good idea to practice in front of a mirror, with the strings of the viola parallel to the mirror.

Duration : 00:41

Source : Marie-Andrée Caux, Scales & Arpeggios for Viola (2013).