Violas

The viola is a string instrument in the violin family, slightly larger than the violin and distinguished by a deeper, mellower tone. It is typically tuned a fifth below the violin, to the pitches C3-G3-D4-A4, and is played with a bow, though it can also be plucked (pizzicato). The instrument fills an inner voice in ensembles and has its own solo repertoire.

Construction and size vary, with modern violas usually spanning about 38 to 43 cm (15 to 16.5 inches) in body length. Commonly, violas have a carved spruce top, maple back and ribs, four strings, a bridge, f-shaped soundholes, a tailpiece, and a pegbox with tuners. They are held under the chin with a shoulder rest; unlike cellos, they do not use an endpin. The instrument’s design supports its rich, resonant lower range.

Notation and range: Viola parts are written mainly in the alto clef (C-clef) and sound at concert pitch, though some music is written in treble or bass clef for convenience. The practical range extends roughly from C3 up to about E6.

History and repertoire: The viola developed in 16th-century Italy as part of the viola da braccio family. It matured in the 17th and 18th centuries, with notable makers such as Amati and Stradivari. The instrument gained prominence in chamber music and orchestras, and the 20th century saw a sizable expansion of solo repertoire. Prominent violists such as Lionel Tertis and William Primrose helped broaden its literature, while composers like Hindemith, Bartók, and Prokofiev wrote important works for viola or viola concertos.

Role and technique: In ensembles, the viola often supplies the inner alto voice between violin and cello. Players employ a range of techniques, including vibrato, shifting, pizzicato, col legno, and sul ponticello, to shape tone and expression.