Possibly one of Shostakovich’s most famous and best-loved tunes, the Waltz from his Suite for Variety Orchestra has appeared in many arrangements. Simple, yet engaging, it’s always an audience pleaser and David Brooker has provided some new versions for string players published in two different volumes.

This volume can be played with two violas or viola and cello. Brooker favours the two viola version, saying the dark timbre of the instruments particularly suits the quality of the music. Duets for these combinations are thin on the ground so these publications will be of great use for teachers and students alike.