JAVS Spring 2025

From the Editor

Dearest friends,

Namgon Lee’s first-prize paper, Transcribing BWV 997 for Unaccompanied Viola , offers a compelling study of Bach’s music and its adaptability for our instrument, a testament to the viola’s versatility and depth. We also feature Nicole Herrera’s remarkable paper, Blas Emilio Atehortúa: Romanza from Five Romantic Pieces for Viola and Piano , which not only earned second-prize, but was also honored with the inaugural Harmony Prize—an award recognizing research that amplifies underrepresented voices and repertoire in the viola world. The AVS continues to foster artistry, scholarship, and community, and this issue reflects that spirit. As we move forward, let us celebrate the work of those who push the boundaries of our understanding, and let us anticipate the moments ahead where we will come together in music and shared passion. And remember—if you ever find yourself questioning your life choices during a particularly tricky passage, just know that Bach is probably laughing at us all from beyond the grave.

Spring is a season of renewal, and as we welcome this latest issue of the Journal of the American Viola Society, we find ourselves in a time of vibrant growth and preparation. The AVS community is buzzing with energy, not only in the continued exploration of our beloved instrument but

also in the exciting journey toward the 2026 American Viola Society Festival at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. As Editor of this Journal and the Festival Coordinator, I am thrilled to share that our Festival Committee is already hard at work laying the foundation for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of all things viola. Mark your calendars for June 3–6, 2026—we can’t wait to welcome you! (And if you’re like me, you’ll write a cryptic note on your calendar and promptly forget what it means until a week before—so set that phone reminder now!) This issue of the Journal highlights the intellectual curiosity and scholarly excellence that define our community. We are proud to present the winning papers of the 2024 Dalton Research Competition, celebrating the next generation of viola researchers.

Happy reading, and happy practicing!

Warmly,

Christina Ebersohl-Van Scyoc

Join the American Viola Society Your membership supports the viola community through performance, education, research, mentoring, publishing, commissioning new works and more. www.americanviolasociety.org/Join.php

Journal of the American Viola Society / Vol. 41, No. 1, Spring 2025

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