# Modern viola excerpts

c. 1910–1950

This modern viola selection contains 3 excerpts. Begin with Ravel: Daphnis et Chloé, Suite No. 2: Shimmering, divided, colouristic string writing that asks for control at very quiet dynamics and precise ensemble. The period label groups these works for discovery; it does not prescribe one tempo, articulation or sound for every composer.

For viola, read the actual clef and register before reusing a familiar violin finger pattern. Listen to the inner part in context: a line that feels secondary alone can provide the rhythm or harmony that makes the orchestral texture clear.

The recorded technique tags in this selection include audition, soft, divisi, colour, ballet. Choose one relevant passage, read its specific practice notes below, and set one listening target before a complete run. Tags describe the library entries, not a required exam syllabus.

Modern orchestral writing asks the cello section for rhythmic precision under irregular metres, extended colours such as sul ponticello and hard pizzicato, and exposed lines with no harmonic cushion. Counting becomes as decisive as tone.

- [Ravel: Daphnis et Chloé, Suite No. 2](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/viola/ravel-daphnis-viola), Shimmering, divided, colouristic string writing that asks for control at very quiet dynamics and precise ensemble. Audition; Modern; Alto clef. Standard audition excerpt.
- [Prokofiev: Romeo & Juliet, Dance of the Knights](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/viola/prokofiev-romeo-juliet-viola), Heavy, deliberate, rhythmically exact writing in the middle register. Approachable notes, unforgiving pulse. Intermediate; Modern; Alto clef. Standard audition excerpt.
- [Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5, I, opening](https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/viola/shostakovich-5-i-viola), The angular canonic opening. Exposed, rhythmically strict, and demanding a hard, deliberate sound rather than a warm one. Advanced; Modern; Alto clef. Standard audition excerpt.

Canonical source: https://arcosounds.com/repertoire/viola/era/modern