viola | Strings Magazine | For players of violin, viola, cello, bass & fiddle

proper string height: Violin strings and bridge

Understanding the Perils of High Action on Stringed Instruments and 3 Ways to Recognize it

Here are some tips to find your comfortable string height on violin in a range that is also healthy, and how to recognize high action when things are out of whack.

Using Musical Context to Approach Viola Scale Work

Most viola methods and fingerings for scales are based on violin playing, but why are there so few dedicated scale or study materials for the viola?

Marlea Simpson’s Kraemer Viola Thrives in ‘Boomy’ Spaces

Marlea Simpson tends to describe her relationship with her viola in strongly affectionate terms, using words like “fun,” “beautiful,” and “ready for anything.”

the violin doctor, dr. immanuel abraham with his violin

3 Tips for Achieving a Relaxed Bow Hold on Violin or Viola

Having a relaxed bow hold is not only good for our playing, but also for our bodies. Here are a few tips on how to best achieve a relaxed bow hold on violin or viola.

Emma Wernig and Albert Cano Smit recording The Viennese viola

Emma Wernig and Pianist Albert Cano Smit Reflect on Recording ‘The Viennese Viola’

The first recording from violist Emma Wernig, "The Viennese Viola," with pianist Albert Cano Smit, adds another layer to the rich musical torte that is Vienna.

Review—Notes for Violists: A Guide to the Repertoire

Oxford University Press’ newest title in its Notes for Performers series offers historical and analytical information on 35 pieces for the viola, from Bach to Weber.

A Bird’s-Eye View: Violist Violist Nicholas Cords Offers Comfort and Connection with New Solo Release ‘Touch Harmonious’

Nicholas Cords' solo album, Touch Harmonious, juxtaposes music from the Baroque with Britten and a cluster of contemporary works, including two premiere recordings.

New Sheet Music: Igor Stravinsky’s Suite Italienne for Viola and Piano

This sheet music of Stravinsky;'s Suite Italienne arranged by Kim Kashkashian closely follows the 1930s violin & piano transcription by Samuel Dushkin with a few twists.

Making His Mark: These 7 Players Have Found Bliss in Hiroshi Iizuka’s Violas

By Greg Cahill | From the November-December 2020 issue of Strings magazine Caeli Smith met her dream viola in 2013, a few days after Thanksgiving, at the ho... Read More...

‘One of the Oldest Violas Around’: Teng Li Has Found a Musical Guide in her Zanetto, Despite its Dimensions

By Laurence Vittes | From the September-October 2020 issue of Strings magazine When Chinese-Canadian violist Teng Li was named principal of the Los Angeles ... Read More...