Viola

The viola is one of the four main String Instruments that comprise a string orchestra. It serves as the alto voice of the violin family.

Though similar in shape to a violin, the viola is slightly larger and lower in pitch by five notes. It is usually tuned from high to low, a d g c, an octave higher than the violoncello. The tone of the viola also sets it apart from the violin, being more richer in tone and sound.

The viola has been the subject of many jokes because of its lesser role in orchestral music, implying that one does not require as much talent to play it. However, many musicians claim that the viola is actually more difficult to play and it has its own rewards.

Some famous viola players include William Primrose, Paul Hindemith, Yuri Bashmet, Nobuko Imay, John Cale, and Whit Schroder. Many famous violinists also play the viola as a secondary instrument, such as Itzhak Perelman and David Gilmour. Some famous works for the viola include viola sonatas by Brahms, and the works of English composers such as Ralph Vaughan Williams, Benjamin Britten, Frank Bridge and Rebecca Clarke, who used the unique tone of the instrument in their compositions.