Mark Goddard, born in 1960, is a distinguished composer and musician. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music (RAM), where he earned the GRSM (hons) and LRAM (piano) degrees. During his time at RAM, he received nine awards for composition, including the prestigious Eric Coates Prize and the Capital Radio Prize After completing his studies, Mark married Pat Goddard, a fellow RAM student and bassoonist. They worked in Oxford for ten years, where Mark composed, arranged, and conducted orchestras and choirs. In 1989, they founded Spartan Press, which they later relocated to the Scottish Highlands12. In 2018, Mark and Pat sold Spartan Press and moved to Bristol, where they established Clifton Edition Limited in 2023. Mark was honored with the Associate of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM) in 2015 for his contributions to the music profession.

Mark Goddard’s Party Pieces for Viola and Piano is a collection of seven fun pieces, originally published by Spartan Press, popular with the UK examination… boards. It is a delightful suite of seven short works that inject charm, variety, and pedagogical value into the viola repertoire. Aimed at players working between Grades 2 and 5, these pieces are not only accessible but also musically engaging, making them ideal for both performance and examination settings. Each piece in the collection carries its own distinct character: “Swingin’” opens the set with a breezy, jazz-inflected rhythm that encourages players to explore syncopation and phrasing. “Blues” offers a soulful contrast, inviting expressive playing and a deeper understanding of blues tonality. “Hornpipe” channels a nautical energy, with brisk articulation and a dance-like feel that challenges rhythmic precision. “Daydreams” slows the pace, allowing for lyrical interpretation and dynamic control. “Boogie” picks up the tempo again, with a playful groove that’s both fun and technically stimulating. “Ragamuffin” introduces ragtime elements, demanding clarity in articulation and a steady pulse. “Charlbury Charleston” closes the set with a toe-tapping homage to the 1920s, full of syncopation and flair What makes this collection stand out is its balance between musicality and technical development. Goddard’s writing is idiomatic for the viola, avoiding the trap of overly simplistic lines while still remaining within reach of intermediate players. The piano accompaniments are thoughtfully crafted—simple enough for student pianists, yet rich enough to support and enhance the solo line. In fact, the piano parts offer room for improvisation, giving more advanced collaborators a chance to add their own flavor. The pieces are short enough to be used individually in lessons or recitals, but they also work well as a complete set. Their inclusion in UK examination syllabuses speaks to their educational value, and their stylistic diversity ensures that students are exposed to a range of genres—from jazz and blues to classical dance forms. Goddard’s background as a composer and educator is evident throughout. His experience with Spartan Press and Clifton Edition has helped shape a catalogue that’s both practical and imaginative. Party Pieces reflects his commitment to making music fun and approachable, without sacrificing artistic integrity. In summary, Party Pieces for Viola and Piano is a vibrant and versatile addition to the intermediate tuba repertoire. It’s ideal for young players looking to expand their stylistic range, improve their technique, and enjoy the process of making music. Whether used in exams, recitals, or casual perform. Previously published by Spartan Press. Former catalogue number: SP176