What is a Viola?
The viola is the violin’s slightly larger, deeper-voiced cousin. It has a rich, warm tone and plays an essential role in orchestras, string quartets, and solo performances. While it looks similar to a violin, the viola has a lower pitch and uses a different tuning (C, G, D, A), giving it a fuller, darker sound that beautifully blends with other instruments.
Viola players read alto clef, which is unique compared to violinists who use treble clef. This makes viola an exciting and specialized instrument to learn! Many violinists later switch to viola for its unique sound and expanded musical opportunities in ensembles.
You’ll hear the viola in everything from classical symphonies to movie soundtracks and even modern compositions. Learning the viola helps develop fine motor skills, ear training, and musical expression, making it a rewarding instrument for dedicated musicians.
Some famous viola players include William Primrose, Kim Kashkashian, Lionel Tertis, and Tabea Zimmermann.
Renting a Viola
We offer a Rent-to-Purchase program for violas, making it easy to get started while investing in an instrument your child can eventually own. Since violas come in different sizes, younger students often start on a smaller instrument and move up as they grow. Our rental program ensures they have the right fit at every stage!
🎵 Like-New Viola Rental – A high-quality, professionally inspected viola with minor cosmetic blemishes and fractional sizes available. Budget-friendly, with protection for damage, theft, and maintenance.
- Rent-to-Purchase – Every payment (up to 50% of the retail price, minus tax) goes toward purchasing a brand-new viola of your choice.
💡 Call us anytime, and we’d be happy to explain our Rent-to-Purchase program!
Every student rental includes:
✔ Viola, bow, and case
✔ Rosin (for bow grip on strings)
✔ Protection coverage (for accidents, theft, and maintenance)
✔ Free school delivery
✔ Easy purchase plans
✔ Legendary Brighton Music Center service!
With flexible plans and expert support, getting started has never been easier. Let’s make music happen! 🎻🎶
Viola Care & Maintenance
A well-maintained viola sounds better and lasts longer! Here are some essential supplies and tips for viola care:
✨ Rosin – Applied to the bow hair to create friction and produce a clear sound.
✨ Shoulder Rest – Provides comfort and support while playing.
✨ Microfiber Cloth – Used to wipe rosin dust and fingerprints off the viola.
✨ Extra Strings – Viola strings can break or wear out, so having a backup set is essential.
✨ Humidity Control – Violas are made of wood, which can expand or shrink with changes in temperature and humidity. Using a case humidifier helps prevent cracks, warping, and tuning issues, especially in dry or fluctuating climates.
✨ Proper Case – Always store the viola in its case when not in use to protect it from damage and temperature changes.
Regular bow rehairing, proper tuning, and careful handling will keep a viola in top shape! Need supplies? We’ve got everything your violist needs! 🎶
Types of Violas & Step-Up Options
As your child progresses, they may need a viola that matches their growing skills. Violas come in different levels, with differences in materials and craftsmanship:
🎵 Student Violas – Made from laminated or basic wood, these are designed for beginners. They offer a warm, basic tone and are available in smaller sizes (12” to full size) for growing students.
🎵 Intermediate Violas – A step up in quality, often made from better wood (aged spruce and maple) with improved craftsmanship for a richer, more resonant sound. They also have higher-quality strings and fittings for improved responsiveness.
🎵 Professional Violas – Handcrafted from high-quality aged tonewoods, these instruments provide the best tone, projection, and responsiveness. They are designed for serious musicians and advanced students, often featuring fine tuners, custom fittings, and expertly carved bridges for peak performance.
If your child is ready to upgrade their viola, we’re here to help! Schedule a demo appointment to try out step-up violas and find the perfect fit. Experience the difference in sound, feel, and performance—because the right viola can make all the difference! 🎶