Tertis, Lionel. My Viola and I. N.p.: Elek, 1974. Web. 14 Dec. 2014.
The author of this work, Lionel Tertis, is said to be the father of solo viola, as he fought for viola recognition and influenced many players to come. This book is written by him, showing a passionate stance for potential and strengths of the viola, despite what was believed at the time. This book is comprised of essays and his own opinions and visions for the viola, making this a reliable source about him and a biased one. His point of view, however, is also very insightful for the popular style of string music in his lifetime (19th and 20th centuries) and how he was able to create change for viola and climb to fame. This was written in the heart of the emergence of the viola and gives direct reference to the changes that occurred, as Tertis is responsible for many of these. In his book, he does admit the weaknesses of the viola in acoustics and size but he also has plans to make it more efficient and sound better. This is relevant to my research because I have sources as to the views before and that the viola underwent a huge change in it’s role during this time, but Tertis lays out his plans that caused these changes. |
"Viola." Encyclopedia Britannica. Encyclopedia Britannica Inc., 20 Nov. 2013. Web. 19 Nov.
The viola is seen as an integral part of ensembles. In the 18th century, little repertoire and parts for the viola existed and it was often used for harmony and cello parts. Composers then began playing and writing for the viola, sparking it’s rise to fame until it was more widely recognized in the 20th century.
The viola is seen as an integral part of ensembles. In the 18th century, little repertoire and parts for the viola existed and it was often used for harmony and cello parts. Composers then began playing and writing for the viola, sparking it’s rise to fame until it was more widely recognized in the 20th century.