What is the history behind the viola?
What is the history behind the viola?
The viola was first introduced in northern Italy between 1530 and 1550. It is generally assumed that the alto, tenor and bass versions emerged soon after the soprano instrument. During this early period the word “viola” referred to any bowed Western classical stringed instrument.
When and who invented the viola?
When was the viola invented? Nobody knows for sure the history of the viola. All we know is that it is an instrument that has evolved through centuries, and it was widely believed to have first developed from ancient bow and string instruments around 1500 in Italy.
What was the viola originally called?
viola da braccio
The viola da braccio, or viola da brazzo (Italian: “arm viol”), was the original name for violin-family instruments, in contrast to the viola da gamba (“leg viol”), or viol, family.
Why was viola invented?
The first violas emerged in Italy around the turn of the 16th century as experimental instruments combining the virtues of previous instruments that were played with a bow. The most important was the viola da braccio, which means “viola played in the arm.”
What is special about the viola?
The Viola Has a Unique Pitch The viola has a remarkable pitch that makes it stand out among other instruments. Its pitch is higher than a cello (about one whole octave higher), so it doesn’t create the mournful effect of cellos.
What is an interesting fact about the viola?
10 Interesting Facts About The Viola The Viola measures in at just over two feet and its strings are thicker than the Violin, meaning the Viola produces a richer and warmer sound. You play the Viola the same way as you do the Violin, resting the instrument between your chin and shoulder.
Who invented a viola?
There were two primary luthiers who produced the first violas like our modern versions: Gaspare da Salo of the Brescia region and Andrea Amati of the Cremona region. Both of these gifted instrument makers were born in the first half of the 16th century and brought great fame to their home cities with their innovations.
Who invented viola?
What makes the viola unique?
First of all, the viola is unique in terms of its size, features, and sounds. It’s like a crossbreed of cello and violin, hence the more gorgeous design and features. There are many sizes available as well as various lengths to suit the unique needs of beginners, intermediate, and professional violists.
What makes the viola special?
Why was the viola invented?
Is learning viola hard?
Everyone knows that the viola is a challenging instrument to learn, that’s why orchestras are always on the lookout for a well-performing violist that can join their recitals. As you are one of a kind, several opportunities can be snatched as a violist. As a musician, you’ll be in demand in orchestras or as a soloist.
Which is harder violin or viola?
The viola produces a richer, darker tone and can be more expressive than the violin. As mentioned before, the viola is harder to play than the violin, making it more of a technical challenge.
What age should you start viola?
Many teachers recommend that the best age to start viola lessons is around age 5 or 6. What is the best age to start viola lessons? The viola is a beautiful instrument that is slightly warmer and mellower in tone than its smaller cousin, the violin.
Why is viola better than violin?
In both cases, it’s the lower, more resonant sound profile that appeals to most violists. If you, too, prefer lower, richer and more resonant sounds – and aren’t drawn to play cello or bass – the viola may be the just right string instrument for you.
Is viola hard to play?