Piano Guidance
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Should I learn viola or violin?

If you prefer slow, dark, and mellow notes, and your fingers are not that slim, then viola is better for you. In an orchestra, the viola might not be as loud as the violin or other string instruments, but volume is not everything as each instrument has its uses.

violinspiration.com - What are the Differences Between a Violin and a Viola? - Violinspiration
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FAQ

Which is Easier to Play: Violin or Viola?

That depends on your skills and what you might find easier. Often violinists try to find work as violists and one of the reasons is that the viola parts in ensembles are usually easier than the violin parts, which have the most solos or get to play the melody line. However, studying the viola is as hard as any other instrument. Its solo repertoire, while not as massive, is maybe as hard as the violin. It might seem to many violinists that viola is easier, which is why you can hear a lot of viola jokes in music circles, but this is a misconception. Any instrument has its difficulties and all should be respected for its role and what it can offer.

Which is Better: Violin or Viola?

Neither is better than the other. Both instruments have their advantages and disadvantages. If you like fast passages, clear sound, and high-pitched notes, then the violin is better for you. If you prefer slow, dark, and mellow notes, and your fingers are not that slim, then viola is better for you. In an orchestra, the viola might not be as loud as the violin or other string instruments, but volume is not everything as each instrument has its uses. Both instruments are needed to create a beautiful listening experience.

Are Violas More Expensive Than Violins?

Usually, violas are more expensive than violins within the same quality range. Since the viola is larger than the violin, it costs a bit more, though usually not that much more. A slightly more expensive price might be also caused by supply and demand since not as many violas are sold compared to violins.

Do Viola and Violin Use the Same Technique?

Yes, viola and violin use the same technique, but with slight differences. If you are familiar with playing the violin, you can play the viola too, to a point. You’ll notice that the bow is not moving the same way and you’ll have to place your left-hand fingers wider. Changing positions feels a bit different too. Violin and viola use the same mentality but still are different instruments. A violinist will find it easy to play viola but mastering it requires dedication as well as a lot of practice—just as for any instrument.

Is Transitioning From One Instrument to the Other Easy?

The transition from a violin to a viola will be quite easy for violinists. They will have a tough time reading the alto clef though and getting used to the bigger intervals. Also, the bow might tire at first. Violists will find the smaller size of the instrument difficult too. The bow will feel easier to use but the intervals are shorter, making it more challenging especially in higher positions.

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The most difficult for both will be to understand how the different instrument works better. It’s not easy going from solos to accompaniment or the other way around.

Viola vs Violin, Which Should I Choose?

No one can answer whether you should choose violin or viola, as it’s up to personal taste. Both instruments have their advantages and disadvantages. And of course, no one says you can’t learn both, but I will recommend that you not do so at the same time. If you like to have a clear sound, be the center of attention, play all the solos, and don’t mind the higher notes, then choose the violin. It’s one of the most beloved instruments and almost all composers have something for you to play. It has a central role in the orchestra and you can work as a soloist too. In the last decade or so it has been used often in popular music, even more than the decade before. You can always buy a 5-string violin, which has a low C, so it will be like having a viola too. If you prefer adding texture and color, and you prefer to play in the lower range, then viola is for you. It’s a great instrument that many people disregard. In an orchestral setting, you will rarely have a major role, but you will be able to understand and appreciate how every voice counts. Also, there are not as many violists as violinists so less competition might seem interesting for you. Viola’s solo repertoire is very distinct but lacks variety, compared to the violin. It has more uses in popular music than you might think. In contrast, you can get yourself a 5-string viola to have the high E string. In any case, there is no wrong answer to this question. If you are trying to decide which one to learn, try both out and see what suits you best.

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