Heitor Villa-Lobos ： Practical Guide Book 1 No.5 On the Viola String

This educational miniature by Villa-Lobos centers on a simple, approachable melody. As its title suggests, it evokes the sound of a string instrument and has a songlike character, while its brevity is enlivened by a distinctly Brazilian rhythmic quality. It is important to distinguish the roles of melody and accompaniment while maintaining a steady pulse. Let the melody sing naturally and keep the accompaniment light and controlled. Careful attention to overlapping tones and accents brings out the vitality and color within its simplicity. This is a piece to perform with an overall sense of unity and an awareness of the breathing of each phrase.