Viola
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The Viola looks very similar to a violin, but it is about one-seventh larger and its proportions are slightly different. The viola produces a warm, mellow tone, and it is an important member of the orchestra and string quartet. However, viola solos are not often heard.
| Family |
| Strings |
| Pitch range |
| At least three octaves. |
| Material |
| Wood, with steel strings. |
| Size |
| Body is approximately 17 in (43 cm) long. |
| Origins |
| Like the violin, the viola evolved from the early European fiddles, such as the rebec. The instrument first appeared in the early part of the 16th century in northern Italy. |
| Classification |
| Chordophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of strings. |
| And also... |
| The classical composers Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-91) were both accomplished viola players. |
