Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Bk 1: A Revolutionary Method for Beginning Musicians (Viola), Book & Online Media [With CD (Audio) and DVD]

Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 1 is the most comprehensive and thoughtfully designed method book for beginning string students. Designed with input from thousands of teachers, it features clean, easy-to-follow page layouts and a well-sequenced progression of skills. It provides clear goals for each exercise, ample reinforcement of new concepts, performance opportunities, diverse musical styles, and innovative teaching and practice resources. Note names are not included inside the note heads in order to fast-track musical literacy. The book is structured into six short levels, offering benchmarks, assessment indicators, and intermediate goals to guide students and teachers.

Every book includes free access to SI Online, a robust platform for supplemental worksheets, practice tracks, alternate tunes, extra string orchestra pieces, instrument-specific instructional videos, and more—all available with no login required. Accompaniment tracks can be slowed down, sped up, and looped for difficult sections. The PDFs include music theory, history, scale exercises, rhythm pages, technique pieces, and more for in-class or home reinforcement and differentiation. These resources support students from their very first notes to their final solo while giving teachers the flexibility to tailor pacing and instruction to meet the unique needs of their ensemble.

Book 1 is available for free in MakeMusic Cloud, an interactive practice tool that engages students and streamlines assessment. Plus, with a paid subscription, students can access SI Extras—exercises set to immersive soundtrack accompaniments from blockbuster superhero films including Wonder Woman, Batman, Superman, Black Adam, and more!