First and second Violins progressing with the Violas in octaves is a common method, especially when the lower octave in the melody happens to go below the open G string on the violins.
| 1. | Vns (I or II) Violas | >[ | 8. |
Example:
Snegourotchka 137, finale of Act I. Quick melody, piano.
| 2. | Vns I + II Violas | >[ | 8 and 3. | Vns I Vns II + Violas | >[ | 8. |
These two distributions are not exactly the same. The first should be used to obtain greater brilliance in the upper part, the second to give the lower part a fuller and more cantabile quality.
Examples:
[No. 27.] Sadko, before 181.—
| Vns I + II Violas | >[ | 8. |
Quick animated passage, forte, introducing reiterated notes.