I`ve been playing the violin for many years. I would now like to explore the world of viola playing. Is the transformation a difficult one?

apparently, i`m a violist so i can`t tell you exactly how it is to go from VIOLIN to VIOLA. i`ve been playing viola for about 9 years now. every now and again, i`ve been asked to play the violin for several gigs during my high school/college career.

the transition from viola to violin is rather awkward at first. the spacings for your fingers is much smaller...depending on what size viola you`re using. in my case, i use a 16 1/2" viola--much bigger in comparison to a violin. also, when doing bow crossings, the angle that your arm/wrist must go to is a whole lot smaller.

so...in answer to your question--which won`t be incredibly accurate but may help get the point across--is that you can expect for your fingers to stretch out a little more and larger ranges of movement for bow crossings. also, when shifting, be sure you go high enough.

i realize that my advice is very choppy and leaves much to be desired but it`s just some basic info. but anyway, good luck with it. have fun!

id stick to the viola because its a lot easier to excel in especially because the section is smaller and each violist recieves more attention than a violinist



i.e.: 6 violas, 20 violins

whos better?????



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if u said viola your correct!!!!!!


violas rok hard



~pe@ce

I switched from violin to viola in 8th grade. I was MUCH happier as a violist! Actually got into the college I wanted to go to BECAUSE I played the viola. Go for it!
(Of course now... I`ve gone to fiddle playing only... and am having a WONDERFUL time of it!
If it`s music... it`s good!
http://www.folkfiddle.com

Just get used to reading alto clef