The Rite of Spring for viola and piano

This virtuosic arrangement reimagines Stravinsky’s landmark 1913 ballet for viola and piano while remaining faithful to the character, color, and rhythmic intensity of the original score. Created by Stephen Wyzczynski and Aram Arakelyan, the transcription draws directly from the 1913 edition and translates the orchestral writing into a compelling chamber work for two performers.

The viola part explores the instrument’s full expressive and technical range through register changes, harmonics, double stops, varied bowings, and dramatic color effects. The piano preserves the ballet’s dense textures, driving ostinatos, and percussive energy, often functioning as a tam-tam or other orchestral forces within the original score. Carefully adapted for playability without sacrificing musical impact, this arrangement offers advanced violists and pianists a challenging, highly engaging way to experience one of the defining works of twentieth-century music.

Read the article in the 2026 Journal of the American Viola Society Summer Issue.