The Viola
The viola is a larger version of the violin. In fact, the two are so similar that it's difficult to tell them apart at first glance. But once you hear the rich deep tones, you'll know it's a viola. The viola first appeared in the 1500s and added the perfect harmonies to the violin's melody. The viola has a larger body and fingerboard, which makes it more difficult to play at the speed and proficiency of a violinist, but today violists are becoming more specialized in their instrument and step up to the challenges put forth in modern orchestral music.
Why Viola?
Good violinists are everywhere, but good violists are hard to find. Violists are a rare breed and there is a lot of pride that's associated with playing the viola. Modern orchestras feature violists more often, not just as middle voice to support the violins, but also as a solo instrument.
How does the Viola contribute to a band or orchestra?
The rich, alto voice of the viola plays a very important role in orchestras to balance the violins and the cellos. They often double the second violins. In general, concert bands don't have stringed instruments like violas.
The parts of a Viola
The pieces of string instruments are virtually the same on all of them. The only difference between violins and violas is the size of the instrument.
- The chin rest is designed to fit under your chin so you can play comfortably.
- The bridge supports the strings and transmits their vibrations to the body of the viola.
- The f-hole, shaped like a cursive "f", lets the sound get out... just like the bell of a trumpet. It also helps amplify the sound.
- The vibrations from the strings create different pitches, depending on the player's position on the fingerboard.
- The fine tuners and tuning pegs make the strings longer or shorter to help tune the viola.
- The bow has horsehair stretched over the top and is used to play the viola.
Tips
Be sure to clean your viola regularly. Use special viola cleaners instead of household products to protect your instrument.
Rosin is a product you put on the bow when it gets too smooth. You probably won't need to use it that often, even if you play a lot. Be sure not to use too much because you could ruin the bow.
If a string breaks, that means you need to replace it. Usually if one breaks, its not too long before the other three break, so you should change them all at the same time.
Ask your instructor to teach you how to replace the strings on your viola so you can do it yourself.
Drastic changes in temperature can damage your viola. Ask your teacher for some ways to avoid this.
How to pick a good Viola
Getting your first viola is a big deal; here are some things to consider.
Full size or fractional? Many students just starting the viola have trouble stretching their fingers up and down the neck of the instrument. Because of this, many schools and stores offer 3/4, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and even 1/16 size instruments for students with smaller hands. As you grow, you can get a larger instrument until you can handle a full size instrument. Be sure to check with your teacher or a local retailer to see what size is right for you!
New or used? Your local music retailer will be able to advise you on pre-loved instruments that they have in stock. This can be a worthy alternative. Unless you know specifically what you want, beware of the internet! You will not get the support, advice and service you will get from your local retailer.
If you are going to buy a used viola, be sure to check the body for any cracks in the wood or imperfections in the carving. Look for signs of wear and see if any pieces are loose or need to be replaced. And since violas are made from natural material, they don't all sound the same. If you decide to get a used viola, make sure a professional looks at it to make sure it's a good instrument. You will have it for a while.
Did you know?
In the 18th and 19th centuries, many composers said that they preferred to play the viola, including J.S. Bach and Mozart.
