Our Top 3 Tips For Switching From Violin To Viola

When first choosing what string instrument to play, many people gravitate towards the violin and cello. It’s easy to see why, with the violin often playing the melody and it being the smallest so it’s not too taxing, particularly for young beginners or those with smaller hands. The cello’s deep, rich tone draws many people in and its’ very natural playing position also makes it easy to start with. But in between these two instruments sits my favourite, the viola.  

For me, the viola’s position as the middle child poses many benefits, with the best being that it can play its' own repertoire as well as that of both the violin and cello. This means that there are endless possibilities of pieces to play and you aren’t constrained by the limitations of the strings’ tuning. It’s tone also actually most closely resembles that of the human voice, so it has a large range that can produce dulcet, deep sounds as well as high, soaring tunes.  

In my opinion, one of the most interesting things about music as well is what happens underneath the melody. These harmonies as they are known, really help make a piece what it is. It’s interesting to listen to a piece with the harmonies and then without - you really sense what a difference it makes contextually and the viola often plays these parts.  

It’s incredibly satisfying to play and is another reason why the viola is so important in an orchestral setting and why it is so alluring.

Finally, as so many people play the violin, the viola is constantly in demand and you’ll never be short of opportunities to play in orchestras and smaller groups! 

If you’ve started out playing violin, it’s possible to switch over to the viola. In fact, the majority of violists actually started out playing the violin, so this is perfectly normal. If you are considering making the switch, here are some tips to help get you on your way! 

1. Partner with a dedicated viola teacher

Although the violin and viola appear to be very similar in the way that they are played, there are quite a few differences that don’t initially catch the eye. Finding a violist who can inform you of these subtle differences will stand you in good stead and help you get to where you want to be faster.

2. Find the right size of viola for you

The viola is quite unique in that it is the only member of the string family that doesn't come with a dedicated "full size". When deciding on a size, try finding one that doesn’t make you have to stretch your fingers too far for intervals but is big enough to still produce a big enough sound. Typically, adults use violas between the 15"-16.5" range.

If you initially aren’t sure whether the viola might be the right choice for you or you just want to try your hand at it first before taking the leap, it could be a good idea to rent one first. Remember, you can always use your first three months rent towards the purchase of any new viola later on down the track. While you're renting, you can also switch to a different size at any time, so you have the flexibility to find what is most comfortable for you.

For more info on sizing, watch our video below on sizing an adult for a viola.

3. Play some of your favourite violin pieces on the viola to familiarise yourself with the alto clef and larger finger spacing

The viola is the only instrument that uses alto clef and it can take some getting used to!

There are some great method books out there that can help you understand where the notes are positioned on the stave compared to treble clef, but a more enjoyable way might be to start playing some of your favourite violin pieces on the viola.

This will also help you to familiarise yourself with the larger interval spacings on the viola and will keep you engaged while you discover the differences between the two instruments and how to get the most out of the sound.  

When first starting out, it may help to even write the note names above the actual notes as a reference and then you can start to rub them out as you get more accustomed to the changes.