Why play Viola?

How do you stop your violin getting stolen? Put it in a viola case!

The viola traditionally is often the subject of orchestral jokes, but in reality it is now becoming a more popular instrument. So why pick the viola? It is well known that Dvorak, Schubert and Mozart loved the instrument and actually played it themselves, though it is quite frustrating that they did not write any solo music for it (though Mozart wrote Sinfonia Concertante for violin and viola). However, in their chamber music writing the viola plays an important role with its own unique voice.

Particularly in the twentieth century, the viola became a much more interesting choice of solo instrument for composers, with the likes of Bowen, Walton and Bartok writing important works in the repertoire.

Today there are many great soloists who are bringing the viola to the attention of audiences throughout the world, including Tabea Zimmermann, Kim Kashkashian, Yuri Bashmet and Lawrence Power. The viola is an instrument in demand throughout the world, so if you decide to learn you will be popular  amongst orchestras and groups looking for players!