How To Play The Viola: A Beginner's Guide

Sep 2, 2025 by Natalie Brooks 42 views

So, you're thinking about learning the viola? Awesome! The viola, often called the mellower cousin of the violin, has a rich, warm sound that's totally captivating. It might seem a bit daunting at first, but trust me, with the right guidance and a bit of practice, you'll be playing beautiful melodies in no time. This guide is designed to walk you through the fundamentals of playing the viola, from choosing the right instrument to mastering basic techniques. We'll cover everything you need to get started, so grab your viola (or the idea of one!) and let's dive in!

Choosing Your Viola: Finding the Perfect Fit

Choosing the right viola is the first crucial step in your musical journey. Unlike violins, violas don't come in standard sizes. They range from 15 inches to 17 inches (or even slightly larger) in body length. Finding the right size is super important for comfort and playability. A viola that's too big will be difficult to hold and play, potentially leading to tension and frustration. On the other hand, a viola that's too small might not produce the full, resonant sound you're after. So, how do you find that perfect fit?

Sizing is Key: The most common way to determine the right size is by measuring your arm length. Extend your left arm straight out, as if you're holding a viola. Have someone measure from the base of your neck to the middle of your palm. This measurement will give you a good starting point. Generally, adults with longer arms will be comfortable with a 16-inch or larger viola, while those with shorter arms might prefer a 15-inch or 15.5-inch instrument. If you're a younger player or have a smaller build, you might even consider a fractional-size viola (14-inch or smaller) to begin with. Remember, this is just a guideline. It's always best to try out a few different sizes to see what feels most comfortable for you.
Student vs. Professional Violas: As a beginner, you'll likely be looking at student violas. These are typically more affordable and designed for ease of play. They're often made with laminated wood, which is durable and less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. Professional violas, on the other hand, are crafted from solid woods like spruce and maple, which offer superior tonal qualities. While a professional viola might sound amazing, it's a significant investment, and a good quality student viola will be more than sufficient for your initial learning stages. Plus, focusing on technique with a student viola will make the eventual upgrade to a professional instrument even more rewarding.
The Importance of Setup: Even the best viola can sound terrible if it's not set up properly. A good setup involves adjusting the bridge, soundpost, and strings to optimize the instrument's tone and playability. The bridge should be properly curved to allow each string to vibrate freely, and the soundpost (a small wooden dowel inside the viola) needs to be positioned correctly to transmit vibrations between the top and back plates. The strings also play a vital role – different strings have different tonal characteristics, and a well-chosen set can significantly enhance the viola's sound. When you're buying a viola, especially a used one, it's essential to have it checked by a luthier (a stringed instrument technician) to ensure it's in good playing condition. A properly set-up viola will be easier to play and sound much better, making your learning experience more enjoyable.
Budget Considerations: Violas can range in price from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. As a beginner, it's wise to set a realistic budget and stick to it. You can find decent student violas for under $1000, and renting is also a great option, especially if you're not sure if you'll stick with it long-term. Renting allows you to try out different instruments and see what you like before making a purchase. When you're budgeting, don't forget to factor in the cost of accessories like a bow, case, shoulder rest, rosin, and a tuner. These are essential items that you'll need to get started.
Trying Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try out a few different violas before making a decision. Play some scales, simple tunes, and listen to the sound. Does the viola feel comfortable in your hands? Do you like the way it sounds? If you're not sure what to look for, bring along a teacher or experienced player who can help you assess the instrument. They can listen to the tone, check the playability, and offer valuable advice. Buying a viola is a big decision, so take your time and choose an instrument that you'll enjoy playing.

Essential Accessories: Gearing Up for Success

So, you've chosen your viola – congrats! But you're not quite ready to start playing just yet. You'll need a few essential accessories to get the most out of your instrument and make your learning experience smoother. Think of these as your viola toolkit – each item plays a crucial role in helping you create beautiful music. Let's break down the must-have accessories:

The Bow: The bow is arguably just as important as the viola itself. It's the tool that translates your physical movements into sound. Bows are typically made of wood (pernambuco is a popular choice for professional bows, but Brazilwood is more common for student bows) or synthetic materials like carbon fiber. The bow hair is traditionally made of horsehair, and it needs to be properly rosined to grip the strings and produce sound. Student bows are generally less expensive and easier to handle, while professional bows offer greater responsiveness and tonal control. When choosing a bow, consider its weight, balance, and how it feels in your hand. A well-balanced bow will make it easier to control your strokes and produce a consistent tone. Try out a few different bows if you can to see what feels best for you. Experiment with different bow strokes on the viola. A good bow will allow you to create a variety of sounds, from smooth and legato to crisp and staccato. Spend some time getting familiar with how the bow responds to your movements – this will pay off big time as you progress.
Rosin: Rosin is a sticky substance that you apply to the bow hair to create friction against the strings. Without rosin, the bow will simply slide across the strings without producing any sound. Rosin comes in different formulas, each with slightly different characteristics. Some rosins are better suited for warmer climates, while others are ideal for cooler temperatures. Dark rosin tends to be softer and produces a warmer, more sustained tone, while light rosin is harder and creates a brighter, more articulate sound. As a beginner, you might want to start with a general-purpose rosin and experiment with different types as you develop your playing style. Applying rosin is a simple but important task. Start by tightening the bow hair slightly (but not too tight!). Hold the rosin cake in one hand and the bow in the other. Gently rub the rosin up and down the bow hair in smooth, even strokes. You don't need to apply a lot of rosin – a few strokes should be sufficient. You'll know you've applied enough rosin when the bow hair has a slightly tacky feel. Be careful not to over-rosin the bow, as this can make the sound scratchy. If you do apply too much rosin, you can gently wipe it off with a soft cloth.
Shoulder Rest: A shoulder rest is a cushioned support that attaches to the back of the viola and helps you hold the instrument comfortably. It elevates the viola off your shoulder, providing a more secure and ergonomic playing position. Without a shoulder rest, you might find yourself hunching or tensing your neck and shoulder muscles, which can lead to discomfort and even injury. Shoulder rests come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, so it's important to find one that fits you well. Some shoulder rests are made of foam, while others are made of wood or plastic. Some have adjustable height and angle, allowing you to customize the fit. When choosing a shoulder rest, consider your body type and playing style. A good shoulder rest should allow you to hold the viola comfortably without excessive pressure or strain. It should also allow the viola to vibrate freely, without muffling the sound.
Case: A good case is essential for protecting your viola from damage. Cases come in different styles, from lightweight foam cases to hard-shell cases. A lightweight case is easy to carry, but it might not offer as much protection as a hard-shell case. A hard-shell case is more durable and provides better protection against impact, but it can be heavier and bulkier. When choosing a case, consider how often you'll be transporting your viola and the level of protection you need. Look for a case that fits your viola snugly and has compartments for storing your bow, rosin, and other accessories. A case with a shoulder strap or backpack straps will make it easier to carry.
Tuner: A tuner is an indispensable tool for any stringed instrument player. It helps you tune your viola accurately, ensuring that you're playing in pitch. Tuners come in various forms, from traditional tuning forks to electronic tuners. Electronic tuners are the most popular choice because they're easy to use and highly accurate. They can detect the pitch of each string and indicate whether it's sharp or flat. Some tuners clip onto the viola's headstock, while others are handheld. There are also many tuning apps available for smartphones and tablets. Learning to tune your viola is a fundamental skill. Before you start playing, always check the tuning. A properly tuned viola will sound much better and make your playing experience more enjoyable. Plus, playing in tune will train your ear and help you develop a better sense of pitch.

Getting Started: Basic Viola Technique

Alright, you've got your viola, your accessories, and you're itching to play! Now comes the fun part: learning the basic techniques. Don't worry, it's not as intimidating as it might seem. We'll break it down into manageable steps, focusing on posture, holding the viola and bow, and producing your first notes. Remember, consistency is key. Short, regular practice sessions are much more effective than long, infrequent ones. So, let's get started!

Posture and Holding the Viola: Before you even pick up your viola, let's talk about posture. Good posture is essential for comfortable playing and preventing injuries. Stand or sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed and your feet flat on the floor. If you're sitting, use a chair that allows your knees to be bent at a 90-degree angle. Now, let's hold the viola. This is where your shoulder rest comes in. Place the shoulder rest on the back of the viola, and then rest the viola on your left shoulder and collarbone. The viola should be positioned so that the scroll (the decorative end of the neck) is slightly to your left. Use your chin to gently secure the viola against the shoulder rest. Your left hand should be free to move along the fingerboard. Avoid gripping the viola tightly with your chin or shoulder – this will create tension and make it difficult to play. Think of your left hand as the primary support for the viola. Your thumb should be positioned on the back of the neck, opposite your first finger. Your fingers should be curved and ready to press down on the strings. Practice holding the viola in a comfortable position for a few minutes each day. This will help you build strength and stamina in your left arm and shoulder.
Holding the Bow: Holding the bow correctly is crucial for producing a good sound. The bow hold is a bit like a handshake, but with a more relaxed and flexible grip. Start by placing your thumb on the frog (the part of the bow that you hold). Your thumb should be slightly curved and positioned opposite your middle finger. Your index finger should be curved and resting on the bow above the frog. Your other fingers (middle, ring, and pinky) should be curved and resting on the bow, providing balance and control. The bow hold should be relaxed and flexible, allowing you to make smooth and controlled strokes. Avoid gripping the bow tightly – this will restrict your movement and make it difficult to produce a good sound. Practice holding the bow in front of a mirror. Check your hand position and make sure your fingers are curved and relaxed. Experiment with different finger pressures and see how they affect the sound. A good bow hold will allow you to control the speed, pressure, and angle of the bow, which are essential for producing a variety of tones.
Producing Your First Notes: Okay, now for the moment you've been waiting for: making some sounds! Start by placing the bow on the string between the bridge and the fingerboard. The bow should be perpendicular to the string, and you should apply just enough pressure to create a clear, resonant tone. Practice drawing the bow across the string in a straight line, keeping the speed and pressure consistent. Listen carefully to the sound. Is it clear and full, or scratchy and weak? If the sound is scratchy, you might be applying too much pressure or the bow might not be properly rosined. If the sound is weak, you might not be applying enough pressure or the bow might be too close to the bridge. Experiment with different bow speeds and pressures until you find the sweet spot. Once you can produce a clear tone on an open string (a string played without pressing down on any fingers), you can start learning finger positions. The viola strings are tuned to C, G, D, and A, from low to high. The first finger position on the A string is B, the second finger position is C#, and the third finger position is D. Practice playing these notes slowly and carefully, focusing on intonation (playing in tune). Use a tuner to check your accuracy. Don't get discouraged if it sounds a little rough at first – intonation is one of the biggest challenges for beginner viola players. With practice, your ear will become more attuned to the correct pitches.

Practice Makes Perfect: Tips for Effective Practicing

So, you've got the basics down – that's fantastic! But learning the viola is a journey, not a sprint. Consistent practice is the key to improving your skills and achieving your musical goals. But practice isn't just about putting in the hours; it's about practicing effectively. Let's talk about some tips and strategies to make your practice sessions more productive and enjoyable.

Set Realistic Goals: One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is trying to do too much too soon. It's tempting to jump into complex pieces before you've mastered the fundamentals, but this can lead to frustration and discouragement. Instead, set realistic goals that are achievable and measurable. Start with simple exercises and gradually increase the difficulty as you progress. For example, you might set a goal to learn a new scale each week or to master a specific bowing technique. Break down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make the learning process feel less overwhelming and give you a sense of accomplishment as you tick off each milestone. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a skilled viola player! Patience and persistence are your best friends on this journey.
Create a Practice Schedule: Consistency is key when it comes to learning any musical instrument. The best way to ensure consistent practice is to create a schedule and stick to it. Dedicate a specific time each day or week to practice, and treat it like an important appointment. Even short, regular practice sessions (15-30 minutes) are more effective than long, infrequent ones. Choose a time when you're alert and focused, and minimize distractions. Turn off your phone, find a quiet space, and let your family or roommates know that you need some uninterrupted time. A consistent practice schedule will help you develop good habits and make steady progress. It's also a good idea to vary your practice routine. Don't just play the same exercises or pieces every time. Mix things up to keep your practice sessions fresh and engaging. This will prevent boredom and help you develop a well-rounded skillset.
Warm-Up Exercises: Just like athletes warm up before a game, musicians need to warm up before practicing. Warm-up exercises prepare your muscles and mind for playing, and they help prevent injuries. Start with some simple stretches to loosen up your shoulders, arms, and fingers. Then, play some open strings to get your bow arm moving and your ear attuned to the sound. Practice some scales and arpeggios to warm up your left hand technique. Warm-up exercises should be easy and familiar, allowing you to focus on your posture, bow hold, and intonation. A good warm-up routine will set you up for a productive practice session.
Focus on Fundamentals: It's tempting to skip the basics and jump straight into playing your favorite tunes, but mastering the fundamentals is essential for long-term progress. Dedicate a significant portion of your practice time to exercises that develop your technique, such as scales, arpeggios, bowing exercises, and finger exercises. These exercises might not be the most exciting, but they'll build a solid foundation for more advanced playing. Focus on accuracy and consistency, rather than speed. It's better to play slowly and correctly than to play quickly and sloppily. As your technique improves, you'll be able to play faster and more expressively. Think of fundamentals as the building blocks of your musical skills – the stronger your foundation, the higher you can build.
Record Yourself: One of the most effective ways to improve your playing is to record yourself practicing. It can be a little nerve-wracking to listen to yourself at first, but it's an invaluable tool for identifying areas that need improvement. When you're playing, it's easy to miss small mistakes in your intonation, rhythm, or bow technique. But when you listen back to a recording, these mistakes become much more apparent. Use your recordings to analyze your playing objectively. Listen for areas where your intonation is off, your rhythm is unsteady, or your bow strokes are uneven. Make notes on what you need to work on, and then focus on those areas in your next practice session. Recording yourself regularly will help you become a more self-aware and critical musician. You'll start to hear your own playing with a more discerning ear, and you'll be able to identify and correct mistakes more quickly.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Viola Music

So, you've mastered the fundamentals, you're practicing regularly, and you're starting to feel comfortable with your viola. Awesome! Now it's time to dive into the wonderful world of viola music. Exploring different styles and genres will not only make your practice more enjoyable, but it will also broaden your musical horizons and help you develop your own unique voice as a musician.

Classical Repertoire: The viola has a rich and extensive classical repertoire, spanning centuries of music. From the Baroque era to the present day, composers have written beautiful and challenging pieces for the viola. Exploring classical music is a great way to develop your technique, musicality, and understanding of music theory. Start with some easier pieces, such as the viola sonatas by Telemann or the Suzuki Viola School repertoire. As you progress, you can tackle more challenging works, such as the viola concertos by Stamitz, Hoffmeister, or Walton. Don't be afraid to branch out and explore different composers and styles. Listen to recordings of professional viola players to get a sense of how the music should sound. Attend live concerts to experience the power and beauty of classical music firsthand. Playing classical music will deepen your appreciation for the viola and its expressive capabilities.
Chamber Music: Chamber music is a fantastic way to improve your ensemble playing skills and make music with others. Playing in a small group requires you to listen carefully, communicate effectively, and blend your sound with the other instruments. The viola is an essential voice in many chamber music ensembles, such as string quartets, piano trios, and string quintets. Start by joining a local community orchestra or chamber music group. Look for opportunities to play with other musicians who share your passion for music. Playing in a group will challenge you to improve your sight-reading, rhythm, and intonation. It will also teach you valuable skills in collaboration and communication. The social aspect of chamber music is also a huge benefit – you'll make new friends and connect with other musicians. Plus, there's nothing quite like the feeling of creating beautiful music together.
Contemporary Music: Don't limit yourself to the classical repertoire! There's a wealth of contemporary music written for the viola, often exploring new sounds, techniques, and expressive possibilities. Playing contemporary music can be a challenging but rewarding experience. It will push you to expand your technical skills and musical understanding. Look for contemporary viola pieces that interest you, whether it's a solo work, a chamber piece, or a concerto. Attend concerts of contemporary music to hear these pieces performed live. Many living composers are actively writing for the viola, so there's always something new to discover. Exploring contemporary music will keep your playing fresh and exciting, and it will connect you with the cutting edge of musical creativity.
Folk and World Music: The viola isn't just limited to classical music. It can also be used to play folk music from various cultures around the world. Folk music often has a simple and direct emotional appeal, making it a great way to connect with your instrument on a deeper level. Explore folk music traditions from different countries, such as Irish folk music, Scottish folk music, or Scandinavian folk music. You might be surprised at how well the viola fits into these musical styles. Learning folk tunes can also improve your ear training and your ability to improvise. Plus, it's just plain fun to play music that makes you want to tap your feet and sing along! Expanding your musical horizons beyond the classical repertoire will enrich your playing and make you a more versatile musician.
Improvisation: Improvisation is the art of creating music spontaneously. It's a valuable skill for any musician, as it allows you to express your creativity and musical ideas in the moment. Improvising on the viola can be a little daunting at first, but it's a skill that can be developed with practice. Start by improvising simple melodies over a drone or a backing track. Experiment with different scales and modes. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – improvisation is all about exploration and discovery. Take an improvisation workshop or find a mentor who can guide you. Improvisation will improve your ear training, your musical understanding, and your ability to think on your feet. It will also make your playing more personal and expressive. Who knows, you might even discover your inner jazz violist!

Continuing Your Journey: Resources and Next Steps

Congratulations! You've come a long way on your viola journey. You've learned the fundamentals, explored different musical styles, and developed your practice habits. But learning the viola is a lifelong pursuit, and there's always more to discover. So, what are the next steps you can take to continue your musical growth?

Find a Teacher: While this guide has given you a solid foundation, there's no substitute for the personalized guidance of a qualified viola teacher. A good teacher can assess your playing, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and create a customized lesson plan to help you achieve your goals. A teacher can also provide valuable feedback on your technique, intonation, and musicality. Look for a teacher who has experience teaching students at your level and who has a teaching style that resonates with you. Ask for recommendations from other viola players or contact local music schools or conservatories. Investing in lessons with a good teacher is one of the best things you can do for your musical development.
Join an Orchestra or Ensemble: Playing in an orchestra or ensemble is a fantastic way to improve your ensemble playing skills, make music with others, and perform for an audience. Orchestras and ensembles offer a supportive and collaborative environment where you can learn from experienced musicians and develop your musicality. Look for community orchestras, youth orchestras, or chamber music groups in your area. Many schools and universities also have orchestras and ensembles that are open to community members. Playing in an ensemble will challenge you to improve your sight-reading, rhythm, intonation, and listening skills. It will also give you the opportunity to perform a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary. Plus, the camaraderie and shared passion for music make playing in an ensemble a truly rewarding experience.
Attend Workshops and Masterclasses: Workshops and masterclasses offer a chance to learn from renowned viola players and teachers. These events often feature intensive instruction, group rehearsals, and performance opportunities. Attending a workshop or masterclass can be a great way to expand your knowledge, refine your technique, and get inspired by other musicians. Look for workshops and masterclasses offered by music schools, conservatories, or professional music organizations. These events can be a significant investment, but the benefits can be well worth it. You'll not only learn new skills and techniques, but you'll also connect with other viola players and build your professional network.
Set New Goals: As you progress on your viola journey, it's important to set new goals to keep yourself motivated and challenged. What do you want to achieve with your playing? Do you want to perform a specific piece, join a professional orchestra, or compose your own music? Setting clear goals will give you a sense of direction and purpose. Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Create a plan of action and track your progress. Don't be afraid to adjust your goals as you go along. Your musical journey is a personal one, and it's important to set goals that are meaningful to you. Celebrate your successes along the way, and don't get discouraged by setbacks. The key is to keep learning, keep practicing, and keep enjoying the music.
Listen to Viola Music: One of the best ways to improve your playing is to listen to viola music – a lot of it! Listen to recordings of professional viola players, attend live concerts, and explore different musical styles and genres. Pay attention to the tone, phrasing, intonation, and expression of the performers. What makes their playing so compelling? What can you learn from them? Listening to viola music will help you develop your ear, expand your musical horizons, and inspire your own playing. Create a playlist of your favorite viola pieces and listen to it regularly. You might even discover new composers or works that you want to learn. Listening is an essential part of the learning process, so make it a priority in your musical life.

Learning the viola is a rewarding journey filled with challenges and joys. Remember to be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, have fun! Keep practicing, keep exploring, and keep making music. The world needs your viola voice!