Beginner Viola Songbook for Kids
The Real Book for Beginning Viola Students (D and A Strings)
What Is This Book?
The Real Book for Beginning Viola Students (D and A Strings) is a step-by-step viola method designed especially for young beginners playing only on the D and A strings. Using seventy familiar songs and just six notes, it introduces music reading in a clear, confidence-building way. The book starts with letter names in the notes, then gradually removes them so students truly learn to read music.
Who Is This Book For?
This book is ideal for elementary-age beginners, roughly ages 6–11, starting viola for the first time. It works well in school orchestra programs, private lessons, group classes, and homeschool music study. It is also a great supplement for ensemble players who need extra practice reading notes on the D and A strings.
What Makes This Book Easy for Kids to Learn?
The book uses extra-large music notation that is easy for young eyes to see and follow. At first, letter names are printed inside the noteheads, giving new players a simple visual guide for each pitch. In the second half, those letter names disappear, gently pushing students to read by note placement instead of guessing. Each page presents only a small amount of material, limiting distractions and helping children focus on one new concept at a time. Clear diagrams, charts, and straightforward instructions keep lessons simple, friendly, and manageable for both kids and adults.
What Music Does the Book Include?
The Real Book for Beginning Viola Students (D and A Strings) includes a large selection of classic, time-tested songs that children and teachers already know and love. Students play folk tunes, traditional melodies, and other familiar pieces carefully arranged with just six notes. This variety exposes young violists to different musical styles while still keeping the music simple, recognizable, and fun to practice.
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 noteheads in the first half of the book
Same songs without letter names in the second half of the book
Simplified arrangements using only six different notes
Clear, uncomplicated diagrams and charts for young beginners
Limited material per page for focused learning
Easy-to-read instructions and sheet music
Fun and engaging format designed for kids
Large selection of classic, time-tested songs for beginning violists
Edition specifically written for viola on the D and A strings
Skills Your Child Will Learn
Music reading on the viola staff
Basic rhythmic concepts and steady beat
Proper viola playing technique and posture
Clear tone production on D and A strings
Melody and simple harmony awareness
Ensemble and group performance skills
Fundamental music theory understanding
Creativity, musical expression, and phrasing
Growing confidence as a young musician
Overall music appreciation and enjoyment
How to Use This Book
Teachers can use this book as a core method in beginning viola lessons or as a supplement to a school orchestra curriculum. Start in the first half with letter-name notes to build quick success, then move to the second half to strengthen real note-reading skills. Parents can follow the simple instructions to guide home practice, focusing on a page or even a single song at a time. In group classes and ensembles, mix and match this viola edition with the matching books for other instruments so every student can play the same songs together at an appropriate level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level is this viola book for?
It is written for complete beginners who are just starting viola on the D and A strings and learning to read music for the first time.
Do students need previous music experience?
No. The book assumes no prior music reading or viola experience and introduces concepts in a gradual, supportive way.
Can this be used in school orchestra programs?
Yes. The structure and song selection work very well for elementary string programs, group classes, and ensemble settings.
Does the book only use D and A strings?
Yes. All the songs are carefully arranged to use just six notes on the D and A strings, perfect for early beginners.
Is there a matching series for other instruments?
Yes. Coordinated editions are available for various instruments so teachers can create mixed ensembles using the same songs.
Learn More
For additional music tutorials and demonstrations, visit the official Music Fun Books YouTube Channel.
Where to get it
Available now on Amazon.