Viola Vs. Violin: What’s the Difference?

How much do you know about string instruments? Can you tell the difference between a violin and a viola? Which would you rather play?

The violin is the most common and identifiable string instrument. As a result, it tends to steal the limelight from its slightly larger relative, the viola. 

A solemn brother to the violin, the viola tends to fly under the orchestral radar. Granted, the two instruments share a lot in common. They also have some significant differences. 

Understanding those differences can help you decide which instrument is right for you. Or – at the very least – you’ll gain a better appreciation of both. 

Size and Structure

You can see one difference between the violin and the viola just by looking at them. The viola is larger. Its body length is generally between 15 and 18 inches. The violin, on the other hand, is 14 inches long. 

The different sizes change how the instrument is held. They also change the sound projected.

Violin

The smaller violin measures about 14 inches. It has a smaller body and shorter strings. Because of that, it produces higher-pitched notes. Because of the smaller size, violinists can play faster passages. They also can reach higher positions on the fingerboard. 

Viola

The viola is between 15 and 18 inches long. Its larger body and longer strings produce a deeper, richer sound. However, its larger size and weight can make it challenging to play for extended periods. 

Tuning and Range

Violas and violins also differ in their tuning and range. While both are tuned in fifths, they begin in different pitches. 

Tuning

Both the violin and viola are stringed instruments tuned in intervals of fifths. What does that mean? The pitch of each string is five notes apart from its adjacent string.

Violin

The violin is tuned to G, D, A, and E. G is the lowest pitch, and E is the highest. That gives the violin a higher pitch, which gives the music a bright and brilliant sound. So, it's good for playing melodies and upper harmonies in an ensemble.

Viola

The viola is larger than the violin. It’s tuned to C, G, D, and A. C is the lowest, and A is the highest. Its lower tuning gives the viola a deeper, richer sound.

In particular, the C string allows the viola to reach lower notes than the violin. It gives warmth and mellowness to its tone. Usually, in an ensemble, it supplies the middle harmonies. The viola bridges the gap between the high violin and the low cello.

Range

The range is the span of notes each instrument produces, from the lowest to the highest.

Violin

The higher the frequency, the more range the violin has. This allows it to reach high notes clearly and brightly.

There is a reason the violin is such a popular instrument. The extended range of the upper register helps carry the melody in orchestral and chamber music. Depending on the context, it can be mighty or tender, piercing or sweet.

Viola

On the other hand, the viola's range is lower. It doesn't go up as high as the violin's. The viola's lower range and larger body size make its sound full and dark.

The viola might not reach the same high notes a violin can. However, the range of a viola adds depth and richness to the harmonic structure of a composition. It is often utilized as an essential middle voice in string ensembles.

Role in Ensembles

Like other instruments, the violin and the viola play specific roles in ensembles. These include orchestras, chamber music, or even a string quartet. Each instrument contributes to the overall sound but in different ways. 

Violin

The violin often takes the lead with its higher pitch and bright tone. It frequently carries the melody. That makes it the focal point in many compositions. The violin’s ability to cut through the ensemble lets it perform intricate passages. It leads the musical direction.

Viola

The viola provides harmonic support. That’s thanks to its lower pitch and warm, rich tone. It enriches the middle register. The viola also adds depth. It blends seamlessly with other instruments. Without the viola, the ensemble will sound imbalanced and incomplete. 

Playing Techniques

Although the basic techniques for playing the violin and viola are similar, there are some differences due to the instruments’ size and tuning.

Violin

The violin’s strings are more closely spaced to one another. That allows faster finger movements. It’s also easier to execute rapid passages.

Violinists also often play higher positions to access the instrument’s entire range.

Viola

The viola requires more finger strength than the violin due to its fingerboard and wider string spacing. It also requires larger hand movements.

You must apply more bow pressure to attain a full sound when playing the viola. That's because of the thicker strings.

Choosing Between the Violin and Viola

Can't decide whether to play the violin or a viola? It can indeed be a tough choice. Do you want to become a master of your instrument? Doing so takes a very long time, so you should pick and choose carefully.

Several factors may assist you in choosing between the two string instruments. 

Musical Preference

Are you the kind of person who enjoys high-pitched melodies? Do you want to be the talk of the town? The violin could be your ultimate match.

However, if you like a deeper, richer sound, you might gravitate toward the viola. You can create supporting harmonies – essential components, yet not in the limelight.

Physical Comfort

The viola is larger and heavier than the violin. So, it can be more difficult for smaller or younger players. Take both out and try. How does each feel in your arms?

Ensemble Role

What types of ensembles do you want to play in? The violins usually have the primary seats. The violas do offer a crucial harmonic backbone, though.

The Similarities and Differences Between Viola vs. Violin

At first glance, violas and violins look pretty alike. At first glance only.

They are unlike in size, and they vary in the sounds they produce and their ranges. These are the main reasons they play distinct roles in an orchestra.

Violins can often play the main melody of any song. They also can produce a sound that is loud and high. It can cut through the other strings' sounds easily.

Don’t overlook the instrument called the viola. Its sound is smooth and dark. The instrument adds more harmony and texture to the song.

Are you ready to kick-start your musical journey? With the proper instruction, you can master the basic skills of playing the violin or viola.

Take this opportunity to go through our comprehensive beginner guide on how to master the violin. Everything is included, from how to tune the violin and make your first strokes to everything you need to get a head start on creating music confidently.