Violas are musical instruments that belong to the string family. They are similar in appearance to violins, but are larger in size and produce a lower pitch. Violas have a warm and rich sound that is often described as mellow and melancholic. They are commonly used in orchestral music and chamber music, but can also be played as solo instruments.

The viola is believed to have originated in Italy in the 16th century. It was designed as a middle voice to bridge the gap between the higher-pitched violin and the lower-pitched cello. The modern viola has a body that is typically between 15 and 16.5 inches in length, and is played with a bow made of horsehair.

One of the key differences between the viola and the violin is their tuning. The viola is tuned a fifth lower than the violin, which means that the notes on the viola are deeper and more resonant. The strings on a viola are typically tuned to C-G-D-A, with the C string being the lowest and the A string being the highest.

Playing the viola requires a different technique than playing the violin. Because of the larger size of the instrument, the player must use a slightly different posture and grip on the bow. The viola also requires more pressure to produce a clear and resonant sound, which can be challenging for beginners.

Despite the challenges, the viola has become an important instrument in classical music. It is often used to provide a rich and mellow tone to orchestral music, and is frequently featured in string quartets and other chamber music ensembles. Many famous composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms, wrote music specifically for the viola.

In addition to classical music, the viola has also been used in other genres of music, including folk and pop music. Some well-known musicians who play the viola include Paul Hindemith, William Primrose, and Yuri Bashmet.

One of the unique features of the viola is its role in orchestral music. In an orchestra, the viola is often used to provide a foundation for the harmonies and melodies played by other instruments. This is because the viola is capable of producing a rich and warm sound that blends well with other instruments in the orchestra.

Despite its importance in orchestral music, the viola has often been overshadowed by the violin. This is partly due to the fact that the viola has traditionally been considered a secondary instrument, and has not received the same level of recognition as the violin. However, in recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for the unique qualities of the viola, and many musicians have begun to explore its potential as a solo instrument.

There are several different types of violas that vary in size, shape, and tuning. Here are some of the most common types:

Standard Viola: This is the most common type of viola and is the standard size for most violists. It typically has a body length of 16 inches.

Large Viola: Some violists prefer larger violas with body lengths of 16.5 to 17 inches. These larger instruments can produce a deeper, richer sound but may be more difficult to play for some musicians.

Small Viola: Small violas, also known as alto violins or treble violas, have body lengths of 15 to 15.5 inches. They are less common than standard violas but are sometimes used by musicians with smaller hands or for playing higher-pitched music.

Baroque Viola: Baroque violas are designed to be played in the style of Baroque music, which was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. They have a different shape and tuning than standard violas and are typically played with gut strings.

Electric Viola: Electric violas are designed to be played with an amplifier and produce a unique, amplified sound. They are often used in rock and pop music.

Five-String Viola: Some violists prefer to play five-string violas, which have an additional C string that is lower than the G string. This allows the musician to play lower notes without having to switch to a cello or bass.

Viola d'amore: This is a rare type of viola that has additional sympathetic strings, which vibrate in sympathy with the main strings. It produces a unique, warm sound that is well-suited to Baroque music.

Some of the companies that manufacture violas are

Granada: With India’s ever growing need for quality guitars at an affordable price, Granada guitars were first introduced in 2003. Since its inception Granada Guitars has grown exponentially into a trustworthy and favored brand in India because of its uncompromised quality, affordability and constant evolution in introducing new and updated models and features - Which is what makes Granada Guitars stand apart. When initially the brand started as a one stop guitars solution to support the needs of budding guitarists and musicians; over the years Granada has evolved into a brand that would cater to the needs of every guitarist from classroom to concert

Hofner: Hofner Violins is a company that has been producing high-quality violins since 1887. The company is based in Germany and has a long history of producing fine instruments. The company has a reputation for producing violins that are highly sought after by professional musicians and collectors alike. Hofner violins are made by skilled craftsmen using the finest materials and traditional techniques. The company's instruments are known for their beautiful tone and exceptional playability, and are used by musicians all over the world. Today, Hofner continues to be a leading manufacturer of violins, and is highly respected in the music industry for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Hidersine: Hidersine Violins is a renowned violin-making company that has been crafting high-quality instruments for over a century. Based in Cremona, Italy, Hidersine is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each violin is handmade using traditional techniques and the finest materials, ensuring that each instrument is unique and of the highest quality. The company is led by a team of experienced luthiers who are dedicated to preserving the legacy of Italian violin-making while also incorporating modern innovations. Hidersine Violins has a global reputation for producing some of the most exquisite violins in the world and is a favorite among musicians, collectors, and enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the viola is a unique and important instrument in the string family. It has a warm and rich sound that is often used to provide a foundation for orchestral music and chamber music. Although it requires a different technique than the violin, the viola has become an important part of classical music and has been used in other genres as well. Despite being overshadowed by the violin, the viola has a rich history and is an important instrument in its own right.

When you purchase a Viola from Furtados Music, you can expect to receive a high-quality instrument that has been thoroughly inspected and tested by our expert staff.  

Overall, Furtados Music is a reputable music retailer that provides high-quality instruments, exceptional customer service, and a wide range of services to help you make the most of your purchase.