JAVS Summer 2026

Figure 4. American Viola Society webpage.

Because these projects require students to learn and prepare repertoire independently within a relatively short period of time, I typically assign only one of them per semester, alongside one or two projects with different learning objectives. The Listening Challenge Many of my students arrive at college having had limited exposure to the breadth of viola repertoire. Listening is one of the most effective ways to expand that knowledge. The Listening Challenge encourages students to make choices based on their personal interests while broadening their familiarity with viola literature and performers. It also promotes critical listening and often sparks curiosity about historical context, musical style, and composer background. This self-paced assignment is distributed at the beginning of the semester and due at its conclusion. Assessment is intentionally minimal. I simply review what students have listened to and follow up, when appropriate, on any questions or observations they share. This project is designed with the following goals in mind: • Becoming more familiar with viola repertoire • Listening to a variety of well-known violists

• Recognizing musical characteristics from different historical periods • Encouraging curiosity and independent musical exploration Instructions Using the Viola Repertoire Listening List, choose twelve complete works to listen to during the semester. For example, if you select a concerto, listen to all movements rather than just one. Submit a copy of the listening list highlighting the works you completed. Choose pieces from the viola repertoire section rather than the orchestral excerpts section, and select high-quality professional recordings whenever possible. Students are encouraged to include comments, observations, or questions on their submitted lists. Special Projects: Community Connection Community connection is a particularly important focus in a new and growing studio. When I think about connection, I hope to help my students build relationships with one another while also engaging with communities beyond the university. To support this goal, I organize a public studio performance each semester.

60

Journal of the American Viola Society / Vol. 42, Summer 2026 Online Issue