Geoffrey Burgon's Six Studies were originally composed for solo cello. This transcription, authorised by the composer, has involved some changes in register and notes due to the different timbres and response of the viola andtheconsiderable difference in physical size of the two instruments.
This work was commissioned by the Portsmouth Festival with funds provided by Southen Arts. The first performance was given by Julian Lloyd Webber attheCathedral Church of Old Portsmouth in June 1980.