Young Strings in Action: Student Volume I

Young Strings in Action: Student Volume I is Paul Rolland's viola string method, developed with Sheila Johnson, for class, individual, and self instruction. Part of the two-volume Young Strings in Action course, this viola edition presents Rolland's approach to the fundamentals of string playing and is designed to work in mixed-instrument classes, public school string programs, private instruction, and independent study.

Volume 1 focuses on total body movement and left arm mobility, connecting physical freedom with positioning and playing facility. The material gives particular attention to the position and balance of the left hand, including early emphasis on the central fingers and their relationship to the adjacent string. Interval and chord relationships are used to support intonation and hand position, while work beginning at the middle of the bow develops a balanced bow arm.

The method combines musical and technical work in a flexible format that can be adapted to different class sizes and instrumentation. Repertoire material in the student books includes pieces presented in duet and trio arrangements, allowing performance by ensembles of like instruments as well as other instrumental combinations. The course also has separate student books for violin, cello, and bass, making this viola volume useful in mixed string ensembles.

For viola players, teachers, school string programs, private lessons, and self instruction, this volume places movement, bow balance, left-hand position, intonation, and ensemble experience within one coordinated method. Its combination of focused practice and shared music making supports learning and performance while making this volume a thoughtful gift for a viola player using the Young Strings in Action course.