Beginner Viola Reading Made Simple
The Real Book for Beginning Viola Students (C and G Strings)
What Is This Book?
The Real Book for Beginning Viola Students (C and G Strings) is a step-by-step music reading book designed especially for young viola beginners. Using only six notes on the C and G strings, it introduces 70 famous, kid-friendly songs in a carefully sequenced format. Students start with letter names inside the notes and gradually transition to reading standard notation independently.
Who Is This Book For?
This book is ideal for elementary-age beginners and early middle-school students starting viola for the first time. It works well in school string programs, orchestra classes, Suzuki-style lessons, private studios, and for parents teaching at home. It’s also perfect for small ensembles where different string instruments use matching Real Book editions.
What Makes This Book Easy for Kids to Learn?
The layout is designed specifically for young eyes and short attention spans. Extra-large notation and uncluttered pages make it easy for beginners to follow along. The first half of the book shows letter names inside the noteheads to build confidence and reinforce note recognition. In the second half, the letters are removed so students can practice true music reading at a comfortable pace. Simple, clear instructions, diagrams, and charts support proper technique and understanding without overwhelming the learner.
What Music Does the Book Include?
The Real Book for Beginning Viola Students (C and G Strings) focuses on classic, time-tested songs that children and teachers already know and love. The collection includes folk tunes, traditional melodies, and other familiar pieces arranged with only six notes. This variety introduces young violists to different musical styles while keeping every song approachable and fun to play.
Are There Fun Extras Included?
This book focuses on the music itself and does not include additional extras.
What’s Inside the Book?
Extra-large music notation
Letter names inside the noteheads in the first half of the book
Standard notation without letter names in the second half
Simplified song arrangements using only six notes
Clear, uncomplicated diagrams and charts
Limited material on each page to avoid overload
Easy-to-read instructions for students and parents
A fun, engaging layout designed for young beginners
A large selection of classic, time-tested songs
A gradual progression that builds reading skills step by step
Skills Your Child Will Learn
Music reading on the viola C and G strings
Basic rhythmic concepts and steady beat
Proper viola playing technique and posture
Understanding of melody and simple harmony
Listening and playing with others in group settings
Foundational music theory concepts
Creativity, musical expression, and phrasing
Overall music appreciation and confidence as a young musician
How to Use This Book
Teachers can use this book as a core reading method for beginning violists in individual or group lessons. In school orchestra or ensemble settings, it adapts easily to mixed-instrument classes when paired with other Real Book editions. Parents can follow the clear instructions to guide home practice, reinforcing just one page or one concept at a time. Students can progress from the letter-name section into full notation, revisiting favorite songs to track their improvement and build a solid foundation for more advanced viola study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this book suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. It is written specifically for first-year viola students with no prior music reading experience.
What strings and notes does the book focus on?
This edition uses only six notes on the C and G strings, keeping the range comfortable and easy to manage.
Can this book be used in a group or orchestra class?
Absolutely. It is ideal for school string programs and can be mixed and matched with other instrument editions for ensembles.
Does my child need a teacher to use this book?
While a teacher is recommended, the large notation, clear instructions, and gradual pacing also make it useful for guided home learning.
Who is the author?
The book is by Larry Newman, founder of Children’s Music Workshop and Music Fun Books, an award-winning music educator and author of hundreds of books and arrangements for young musicians.
Learn More
For additional music tutorials and demonstrations, visit the official Music Fun Books YouTube Channel.
Where to get it
Available now on Amazon.