Music
CWU Viola Day
About Viola Day
Viola Day is an opportunity for violists to gather and play together. Participants of all levels are welcome and all activities are open for observers to enjoy.
Each year, 4 soloists will play a movement of the Telemann concerto with the alto clef orchestra. At least one player will be a non-CWU student. Please inquire if you're interested!
Guest Workshop
"Pitch, Please! Finding the right intonation for the music you're playing"
Viola Day welcomes Peggy Gries for a workshop on playing with the best intonation for each style. All musicians are encouraged to participate, not just violas!
Time and Place
- Sunday, October 25, 2026
- 10:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m.
- Central Washington University
- McIntyre Music Building
- Concert hall, Recital hall, Choir room
- Cost - Free!
Schedule
- 10:00 a.m. - Arrival, registration, music pick-up, and coffee and snacks.
- 10:30 a.m. - Rehearsal of ensemble pieces on noon concert
- 12:00 p.m. - Noon Concert
- 1:00 p.m. - Lunch (provided)
- 1:30 p.m. - Violympics
- 3:00 p.m. - Guest Workshops/Masterclass TBA
- 5:00 p.m. - Rehearsal of ensemble pieces for final concert
- 6:00 p.m. - Final Concert
- 7:00 p.m.. - Reception
The Music
Each concert will have a mix of solo and ensemble pieces. Anyone can play along on the ensemble pieces by showing up to the Viola Day rehearsals. Participants are not required to play all the pieces- only the ones they are comfortable playing. See below for sheet music links. Once you're registered, you will be contacted to discuss your part choice/assignment.
Registration
Please let us know you're coming so we have enough food for the CWU hosted lunch and are prepared with stage setup. Registration is below.
Lunch
The CWU viola studio will provide lunch and snacks in the choir room. All participants and guests are invited to join and can bring their own food if they wish.
Common dietary restrictions will be accommodated, such as Gluten-free, Vegan and nut free. Please contact Dr. Rahn with further questions or accommodation requests.
Violympics
- This is a very silly collection of activities that challenge us and make us laugh! There are prizes for participation!
- Violaoke - viola karaoke! we will play through songs with a karaoke track. Sheet music will be provided. Pop, jazz and classical will be heavily featured. Be in contact if you have a request!
- LingLing Workout- Made famous by the YouTube duo, TwoSet. Google it. Challenges can be done as a group or individually.
- Viola Jeopardy- test your viola knowledge!
- More TBA
Masterclass/Workshop
- At least one non-CWU student is invited to play in the masterclass. Please inquire if you're interested.
Concert Information
- Dress is all black
- Participation is based on the players comfort level
Noon Concert
- More to come!
- Telemann Viola Concerto arr. Wreede
Final Concert
- More to come!
- Bohemian Rhapsody for 8 Violas arr. Dan Doña
Participation Certificates
- Certificates will be presented to participants at the final concert.
About Our Guest
Dr. Margret Gries
Margret Gries has pursued a career in early music that has included both academic research and professional performance. For over thirty years she has been a recitalist and teacher, valued for leading discussions on performance questions as they relate to broader cultural and philosophical issues. She is known for her expertise as a harpsichordist and organist, and as an instructor of early string instrumental technique. She has also studied and performed extensively on Renaissance and Baroque violin and viola.
Dr. Gries has served as instructor in harpsichord at the University of Washington. She has also served as instructor in music, philosophy and humanities at Central Washington University and continues to offer a summer graduate course in Philosophy of Music there.
Music Downloads
- Parts will be assigned prior to Viola Day. Participants will be contacted by email.
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printed parts will be available, but tablets are highly encouraged.
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*music links to come*
Questions and Inquiries
Please contact Dr. Michelle Rahn for any information you need at Michelle.rahn@cwu.edu
Register Now!
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