PRINTED VERSION: With this book Melissa Matson has prepared a guide to help violists deeply practice and understand orchestral excerpts. Matson begins each excerpt sheet with a discussion of the most important aspects of the excerpt, then shows you how to work on achieving rhythmic accuracy, good intonation, correct articulations, and appropriate sound and style that supports the music. Melissa has created etudes and exercises to help you work through tricky passages in new and creative ways. These etudes are detailed lessons for practicing excerpts with focus and intent. Some ideas are fairly standard while others are admittedly a bit wacky - but all are intended to inspire the journey towards the dexterity, reliability, and stylistic versatility of a successful orchestral player.