Kreisler Schon Rosmarin for Viola and String Orchestra

Kreisler's Schön Rosmarin ("Fair Rosemary") is a short Viennese salon piece from 1905 that sits naturally in the viola's middle register, where the instrument's darker tone gives the music a distinctive warmth the violin original doesn't quite have. This arrangement sets it for solo viola and string orchestra at ABRSM Grade 7-8.

Originally written for violin, the melody transfers well to viola, and the Viennese character — lilting triple metre, elegant phrasing, light and graceful throughout — asks for the same things from a viola player as from a violinist: flexible bow control, good rubato, and the ability to maintain a refined sound without losing projection. At Grade 7-8, the technical demands are modest enough that the focus can go into style and musicianship rather than notes.

The string orchestra provides a warm, transparent accompaniment that supports the solo line throughout.

At two minutes, this is an encore-length piece rather than a main programme item, but that's part of its value. It's exactly the right length for a concert closer, a short solo feature between larger works, or an accessible introduction to solo playing with ensemble for an advancing viola student.

See and hear the difference

Check the score and parts preview images above, then watch the complete score video below. They'll give you a clear picture of the engraving quality and overall difficulty before you buy.

Key features

• Instrumentation: Solo Viola and String Orchestra (Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Double Bass)
• Difficulty: approximately ABRSM Grade 7-8
• Duration: approximately 2 minutes
• Style focus: Viennese character, lyrical phrasing, bow flexibility
• Format: PDF download, full score and all parts
• No performance licence required

Who it's for

Suits an advanced viola student or professional looking for a short, stylish solo piece with ensemble support. Works well as a concert encore, a solo feature between larger works, or teaching repertoire for any player at Grade 7-8 working on musical phrasing and Viennese style.