This book is the result of conversations between the author and the great viola player William Primrose before his death in 1982. Their talks covered every aspect of the instrument and its repertoire.

Before the death, in 1982, of the renowned violist William Primrose, David Dalton engaged the musician in a lively series of conversations which touched on almost all aspects of viola technique, performance, repertoire, recording, and history. This book is a transcription of this dialogue, containing illuminating advice on holding the viola, bowing, tone, fingering, and practicing, all supported by copious illustrations and musical examples, as well as insights on repertoire for the viola--"an instrument without tradition"--and on performances of the great concertos by Bartok and Walton. Punctuated with frankness and humor, this book is a tribute to one of the greatest artists of this century.

will be read with pleasure and profit by players and teachers of all bowed string instruments ... We are indebted to Dalton for capturing in print so much of the wisdom and inspiration of this trail-blazing artist.