At one glance, it seems that all string instruments are replicated in the same sizes of moulds creating common confusion among people of what is what and which is which. Let us take a look at viola and violin for instance; valuable pieces of instruments in the orchestra, both from Italy, considered a birthplace of classical music, and produce music using the bow. Comparing their similarities is limited to these facts only because these two are totally different in a whole new level each possessing unique characteristics incomparable to one another and to other types of stringed instruments.

In terms of creating sounds, viola can easily be recognized with its deep, mellow sound due to the heavier strings. Viola can create high pitch sounds in Alto or C clef, but the violin is higher; a good sound for melody played in Treble Clef. When it comes to size, the violin is much smaller compared to viola, but both are played using their bows. For viola, makers follow a standard size set long ago in Italy, but certain modifications are being made to its design and size.

The tuning process for both instruments also varies. For example, the viola’s music is tuned down one-fifth of the sound produced by the violin or sometimes tuned according to the preference of the musician. With this tuning process, the music produced by viola can go over 3 ½ octaves which is equivalent to piano and harmonics’ highest notes. In the profound world of orchestra, this serves as the highest note.

In spite of their differences, one major similarity between the two instruments is that they can be played using bows and the fingers just by plucking their strings. Pretty easy because anyone can strike a bow and pluck strings, but it is the handling and the positioning that can be awkward at first especially for the viola with its big size which needs someone who can maneuver it with ease and create music at the same time. Violins are small yet a handful. Still, one must learn to practice the proper positioning to perfectly create music.

It was during the Baroque period where the violin started getting attention with its high-pitched yet stunning sound and up to this day, its fame never ceased as it continued to be used for modern music like jazz and pop, making it also the most visible string instrument being played on television apart from the acoustic guitar.

At the orchestra, violas serve as an ideal instrument in creating harmony. Baroque and classical music pieces played as chamber music call for a solo viola which is a significant aspect in music.

It was discovered that it was during the early 16th century that the viola was made in Italy making it the first instrument to be ever created in the family of stringed instruments. Both music pieces Brandenburg Concerto No. 6 composed by Bach and Beethoven’s Serenade sought the harmonious sound of viola to help them accomplish a one of a kind piece in their music.




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