I`m thinking of starting the viola and I was wondering if you all could tell some good brands at reasonable prices?
Please write back! thanks
-amanda

Also I`ve got very small hands, so would it be harder for me to play? What size would I need?
-amanda

Two pieces of advice:
1. Get the best that you can afford.
2. Get the largest you can comfortably handle.

Unlike the size of the violin, the size of the viola is less standardized. Individual instruments vary, but on average the larger instrument has a larger voice, and by making it smaller you will be sacrificing sound and tone quality.

You will have to try them out. Hand size matters less than arm length. If you can stay in the 16" to 16.5" range, then you have a good chance of finding one with decent tone quality. I am stating generalities; I know there are many fine 15.5" violas out there but on average you will probably enjoy the sound of a bigger viola better.

Go to your local instrument dealer and try some on for size.

Then take a look at Gliga violas at www.violinslover.com. They have many different price/quality levels to choose from. They offer good value for the price.

Gliga. 15 inch.

Liz

Someone on the forum www.violaforum.be has a 15" Gliga viola for sale...why don`t you take a look and ask the seller about it.