A member of the violin family, the viola sits right between the standard violin and the cello, and in contrast to the violin, is viewed as a supporting instrument rather than a solo instrument.
Picking Out Your Viola
The viola models available at Bax Music range from the beginner-friendly entry-level to study models designed for the serious student. And, as well as acoustic violins and violas, we also stock electric violins and violas.
Viola Strings: Tuning & Range
Compared to a violin, the viola is tuned down by a fifth, so it's tuned in C, G, D, and A instead of G, D, A and E. The G, D and A strings are actually the same on the violin and viola, but the difference lies in the low C-string of the viola and the high-E sting of the violin. This difference gives the viola a C3 to A6 range (harmonic E7). Just like the violin, there are three common types of viola strings: gut, steel, or synthetic. Traditional gut strings are relatively expensive to produce but have a naturally warm sound and comfortable playability, while steel strings are a touch cheaper but have a more stiff playing feel, and synthetic strings sit somewhere between the sound and feel of gut and steel strings - they just take longer to break in.
Viola Sizes
Unlike the violin, the viola has a slightly deeper body and no fixed dimensions, so instead of referring to a 4/4-sized model or a 1/2-sized model, viola models are described in inches. The most common viola size is 16 inches, since it's generally the most comfortable size for most adults, while more compact models can measure 15 or 15.5 inches. Check the FAQs below for an overview of the ideal viola size according to your arm-length.
The Sound of the Viola
Just as the high E-string of the violin lends itself perfectly to solo work, the low C-string of the viola lends itself perfectly to accompaniment. The sound of the viola is considered more laid back and less shrill than that of the violin, and since the violin is such a popular instrument, many violists find it much easier to secure spots in orchestras than violinists - simply because there aren't so many of them around.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Viola
How much do violas cost?
The price of a viola can start at around £200 and goes up from there. If you're looking for a serious study viola, then you'll be paying at least £500 or more.
What's the difference between a violin and a viola?
The viola is larger than the violin and is tuned a fifth lower in pitch. The size and tuning give the viola a fuller and warmer sound that's more suited for accompaniment than solo work.
How big is the viola?
The viola has no fixed size. The right viola size depends on the arm length of the player. This is measured from the shoulder to centre of the palm. So if you have a 53cm to 56cm long arm, then a 13 inch viola should feel about right. 56cm to 60cm arms = 14 inch, 60cm to 64cm = 15 inch, and 64cm to 68cm = 16 inch.
What does the viola sound like?
The timbre of the viola sits between that of the violin and the cello but also has its own unique character, since it has more warmth and depth than the sound of a violin and a lighter feel than the sound of a cello.
How are violas made?
Just like a violin, the body of a viola is often made out of a spruce top plate, a maple back plate and maple sides.
