Though perfect for Halloween, Arachnid’s Lair can be performed any time of year. The dark, subtle introduction with molto crescendos and decrescendos hint to a sinister plan by an arachnid on its prey. Dissonant harmonies and tempo changes add to the movement on the spider’s web. A brief, but hauntingly beautiful viola solo is offered in the middle section before the final buildup to an exciting climax. The interesting and dramatic sounds of this work will not only teach students new techniques, but it will also motivate them to explore the limits of dynamics and articulations on their instruments.