The Best Violas
Boasting a warm, low sound, the viola is a key instrument in any orchestra. Because its luxurious sound is situated right between the bright, high tones of violins and the dark resonance of cellos, violas bring unity to the strings section. But choosing the right viola can be a daunting business, especially if you've never played the instrument before. You'll want to find a viola that fits the size of your body as well as one that is made of quality materials. That's why we've done the research for you to come up with our list of favorite violas available for online purchase today.
Mendini MA250 Viola
For testing the waters
If you’re still figuring out if stringed instruments are your thing, why spend a fortune on one that may not be for you? We love the Mendini MA250 Viola because it’s an entry-level viola that offers great bang for your buck. With a spruce top and a maple back and sides, this viola is the real deal. It comes in six different sizes ranging from 12 to 16 inches to work with your particular body. It even comes with a slew of accessories so you know just where to begin.
Pros:
- Great cost value
- Easy to play out of the box
- Four natural and colored finishes to choose from
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a shoulder rest
Cecilio CVA-400 Viola
Affordable accessories
One of the things we don’t realize when we first buy an orchestral instrument is all the other accessories that we’ll need to purchase alongside it. That’s why getting everything you need in one bundle makes the most sense for beginner musicians. In addition to the flamed maple CVA-400 viola, this set by Cecilia also includes a chromatic tuner, lightweight hard case, horsehair bow, rosin cake, and bridge. And because the whole set is super affordable, you can upgrade the size of the fine-tuned instrument with every year your child ages, without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Comes in six different sizes
- High-quality strings for better playability
- Stays tuned
Cons:
- Strings on the bow loosen quickly
D Z Strad Viola Model 101
To play for years to come
These days, you’ll find plenty of companies that sell quality instruments. But when it comes to violas, few brands are as well known as D Z Strad. A favorite among Suzuki and private teachers, D Z Strad violas produce warm, round tones and feel good in the hand. It’s for this reason we recommend the Viola Model 101 for students who know that the viola will be their instrument. While more advanced musicians may prefer a different model, beginner and intermediate learners can go far with this super playable instrument without having to immediately replace parts upon arrival.
Pros:
- Made of fine spruce and maple
- Velcro strap in the case to hold viola in place
- Includes a shoulder rest
Cons:
- Will need to be tuned frequently
Cecilio CVA-600 Viola
A step above the rest
If you’ve been playing an entry-level instrument for a while or are making a switch from a similar stringed instrument, an intermediate viola may be the next step for you. Here’s where the Cecilio CVA-600 Viola comes in with its warm tone and adult size. Made of hand-carved, highly flamed maple that’s been aged over 7 years, this baby looks like a more professional instrument, too. And because it’s strung with D’Addario Prelude Strings, you’ll get better sound and playability from the very first note. Best of all, like every Cecilio instrument, you’ll get a nice set of extras with your purchase to replace your old set.
Pros:
- Comes with several accessories including a padded case
- Bows are made with genuine Mongolian horsehair
- Flamed back and sides
Cons:
- Tuning pegs may be stiff for the first few uses
D Z Strad Viola Model 400
Play like the masters
When it comes to producing the sound you want, the design of the instrument makes a big difference. And with violas, a lot of this has to do with the type of wood used to make the body. So if you’re looking for the highest-quality construction, look no further than the D Z Strad Viola Model 400. The body is hand-carved by experienced luthiers from Italian tonewood that’s been naturally dried outside for 20 years. While this process seems excessive, it’s actually a traditional European technique that prevents the wood from opening or expanding over time, meaning the sound you love won’t change through the years.
Pros:
- Hand-varnished for even finish
- Professional wood design lasts longer
- Helicore strings for a warm, clear tone
Cons:
- Higher cost
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a violin, a viola, and a cello?
A viola can be seen as the middle child between a violin and a cello, both in terms of size and in terms of tone. Its role in the orchestra is to blend the string sections together, filling in the harmonies and acting as an accompaniment, which is why it’s such a key player in any band.
How do I know which viola size is right for me?
Violas range in length from 12 to 17 inches and must be chosen based on the size of the musician. Most adults are fine to play 16-inch violas, but children need smaller ones depending on their age and size. If you measure your child’s arm length, you’ll get a pretty good idea of the initial size they need. And if you’re unsure, err on the side of too small proportions to avoid injury.
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