Viola


 * Viola**

The viola is slightly larger and has a slightly lower and more mellow sound than the violin. Because it is so versatile, the viola often plays melody and harmony in the orchestra. Like all other string instruments, the sound is produced on a violin by either plucking or bowing the strings. The violin is hollow and made of thin wood which resonates when the strings vibrate. When playing, the violin is rested on the left shoulder, fingered with the left hand, and plucked or bowed with the right hand.  media type="custom" key="3699681"

Here you can listen to the viola performing a tango written by Astor Piazzolla. Listen to the mellow sound of the instrument as it interacts with the classical guitar!

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 * If you like the sound of the viola but think you might enjoy a slightly higher-sounding instrument, you might enjoy the violin.
 * If you want to play a string instrument but want to play an instrument with a much lower sound, you should try the cello.
 * Trvia: Modern violin and viola strings are made of steel, but historically, these instruments were strung with something called "gut" strings. These strings were made of...you guessed it, real animal guts! The strings you use today are all made of steel!