Beginner Violas: Key Considerations to Make an Informed and Beneficial Purchase

The first violas emerged in northern Italy in the 16th century. They were built in proportions close to those of the violin and, in many ways, they’re similar to each other. However, the viola is larger, has a warmer sound and plays in a lower range. Its mellow sound helps to balance the brighter tone of the violin. 

So, if you’re someone who enjoys a darker, more resonant sound, opt for a viola. It is primarily an orchestral musical instrument, but not limited to it and can be heard in folk, rock, jazz and pop music, too. 

Buying Your First Viola? Make It Fun and Enjoyable 

When it comes to buying a viola, there are some important things to consider. First, it doesn’t come in a standard size like the violin and there are different levels for players at different stages. You can buy a beginner viola and constantly work on the basics of playing, tone production, bowing and more. 

Size Affects Sound 

The size of a viola used to have an impact on the sound, the larger the viola the richer and louder the tone. However, modern violas produce a rich, full tone regardless of size, so you won’t have to suffer the weight of the instrument for the sake of sound.  

The size of the viola refers to the length of the instrument’s body and doesn’t include the neck. When choosing your beginners’ viola, it’s important to consider your height and arm’s length.  

Comfort Matters 

Chin and shoulder rest, neck size, the height of the ribs, and the size of the upper bout, all play a role in the overall viola experience. Some may say that comfort is more important than size because if the violist struggles while playing, it will show through sound quality and won’t play well. 

Choose High-Quality Materials 

The quality of the viola material impacts both sound and price. Cheaper wood usually has a brighter sound compared to the warmer tones of more expensive wood. 

Consider Price 

It is not necessary to buy an extremely expensive one. Even though the price is not necessarily an indication of product quality, a low-priced viola is likely to be almost unplayable, while a more expensive one can balance both sound production and playability.  

There are many options of high-quality viola for beginners in the mid-price range that are great for enthusiasts who are just starting with the instrument. Just make sure to buy from a reputable retailer and consult your teacher for recommendations and advice.  

Rent or Buy?   

The biggest benefit of renting a viola is that you can enjoy the instrument without financially committing to it. It is a great solution if you’re still not sure what exactly you’re looking for and gives you enough time to fall in or out of love with the instrument. 

Buying makes sense if you’ve been playing the viola for some time and have reached the point where you want to take your studies further and upgrading from a rental to a purchase seems like an option you won’t regret later. So, you can start by renting a viola until you’re ready to own one. 

Where to Buy? Online or In-Store? 

Buying online is getting more popular lately, just make sure you’re buying from a trusted retailer. You can visit most of them if you want to test the instrument and enjoy a fun and relaxed shopping experience. Give their violas a research before you go to test them, so you’ll know what you’re looking for. Testing the viola before buying it can help you feel if the size is comfortable and the projection far enough, so the sound of the viola will be heard over other instruments. 

Ensure sound quality is coherent in all strings. Getting a powerful C string is great, but make sure the other three are also comfortable to play. Typically, shorter strings are more comfortable to play, but longer strings provide a slightly stronger power. In the end, it all depends on your style and preferences. 

Check the tones of different violas, test them with different bows, play scales and fast and slow passages, play all strings in all registers and find out what sounds most appealing to you.  

Final Thoughts 

Choosing your first viola doesn’t have to be a challenge. In the end, the most important thing is that you like the viola you’re buying, so you will learn the basics and begin to grow as a musician with confidence. 

Being a proud owner of a viola means that you should take proper care of your instrument and store it in an appropriate case, keeping the bow in good shape always and wiping it free of fingerprints after every use. A well-chosen beginner viola that is well cared for won’t use much of its value over time. Some violas may even increase in price as time goes by, depending on the make and model.  

The instrument is very fragile, that’s why it’s a good idea to get a sturdy case to store your viola and keep it safe and always protected. And don’t forget the viola accessories such as bows, rosin, and shoulder rest (it’s optional, but it’s great for adding a layer of support and comfort to your playing experience). And of course, extra strings.