I'm going to learn to play the viola!

Yes, I'm joining the dark side: three weeks ago I started playing the viola!
No worries, I still play the violin as well. ;-) My teacher plays both and I alternately have violin and viola lessons now.
In this video I let you hear how it sounds and I tell you how it's different from a violin.
What do you think about the viola?
- Marijke
• M U S I C
Background music // Happy Mandolin - KZbin Audio Library
• G E A R
Acoustic violin (rental) // German, about 150 years old
Strings // Corelli Crystal
Bow // Zlata Brouwer // carbon fiber violin bow
Electric violin // Bridge // Aquila
Strings // Zyex
Octave strings // D'Addario Helicore OCTAVE + Sensicore Supersensitive OCTAVE
Viola (rental) // brand: Leonardo
Strings // Dominant
Bow // Zlata Brouwer // carbon fiber viola bow
Rosin // Evah Pirazzi Gold
Shoulder rest // Wolf // Forte Secondo
Tuner // D'Addario // Micro Violin Tuner
Amplifier // Kustom // Sienna 16PRO
• A L L S H E E T M U S I C
www.marijke-pla...
• I N S T A G R A M
marijke.plays
/ marijke.plays
• E - M A I L
[e-mail]

[@hannahhhidk]

I really hate the bad stuff you hear about violas and violists. I think they are just as important as any violin, cello or bass.

[@violindudes.2822]

Nah

[@DylanTheDuck18]

Just Bananas hey we hate on ourselves too

[@ranjhamasalih1610]

Hey, watch it!

[@Sonarcer]

Haha you're funny

[@--TOM--]

Same here

[@niclastname]

I might be in the minority here, but I actually prefer the smoother sound of a viola over the violin. That crisp clarity of the violin does have many good uses though.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Well, I totally get that! It depends on my mood which one I prefer. 😋

[@luina78]

I have been playing viola for a long time but stopped for a long period too, and i still prefer the viola today as i started it again ! I have always loved this melancholy since i was small.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Awesome you started again! Yes, the somewhat gloomy sound is so lovely! 😀

[@shipsahoy1793]

Yes, me too, but I love the sound of the cello even more, one octave lower than viola. The violin was the least expensive for me to get started so I'm learning violin right now, still getting acclimated to it, but I hope that someday I can be like Marijke!

[@grannytacoakainc9022]

I haven’t learned how to play a Viola yet,I’m learning this summer due to middle school.Im excited although I’m gonna struggle because I have a arm injury....😅😅😅😅

[@emilyw2851]

Viola squad unite!!!!!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Woop woop!

[@emilyw2851]

YEAHHH

[@talkingfriendsandyou]

YEEET😂👏👏👏

[@daylea4393]

Yaaaaaaaa

[@violaisreallycool]

Vvvvviiiiiioooooollllllaaaaaa!!!

[@maryhope5369]

I have been playing viola for almost 2 years, and I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have been lucky to have great teachers who support me, its got such a beautiful, smooth, rich sound and I could never see myself playing the violin and leaving the viola (or playing the violin at all lol).

[@MarijkeViolin]

Haha great! Love it too! ❤

[@alanajevert8231]

I also play the viola, and it's great you are trying it out! You've made great progress! :) The viola is definitely underrated at times, but I think it's just beautiful. Plus, you get lots of gigs as a violist, since we are a rare bird, and there are usually too many violinists, but not enough violists!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Glad you like it! And indeed, there's always room for violists!

[@infinitebliss5150]

I play the viola and I love it

[@sactownviolist2668]

Violists need to know both alto and treble clefs at a certain point! When going into the top of the viola range, composers often switch to treble clef to avoid using a ton of ledger lines. Other fun fact: the alto clef is the oldest clef in Western music. Medieval music manuscripts are almost all in alto clef! It's still used occasionally by a few other instruments: a few composers have used alto clef for trombone parts in the upper register, and Prokofiev wrote his English horn parts in alto clef at concert pitch rather than in treble clef transposing down a 5th.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yes, I have seen sheet music for viola that alternates between alto and treble clef! And it's really interesting to learn that about the history of the clef!

[@moon-ig8tq]

I have been playing viola for a little over 3 years now, and I have been starting playing in treble clef, just as you mentioned. I suck 😂 I should just stick to alto haha

[@MarijkeViolin]

Sounds hard, but it should be doable. In the end. 😋

[@ciaobellavita]

Yes! Violas are pretty great! I'm a Viola player myself and I quite enjoy it more that the violin

[@ciaobellavita]

@@moon-ig8tq same here lol

[@elmore707]

Violin sounds very cringy on beginners. I think it's the only instrument that ready takes a long time before it starts to sound soothing on other people's ears.

[@MarijkeViolin]

As far as I know: agreed!

[@nocturnallsnake4228]

so does the viola

[@nicolemendonsa1142]

So does the viola and the cello and the bass and lots more

[@FroggieToast]

same as trumpet 🎺

[@kosukemiura1226]

*c l a r i n e t*

[@rochoa7408]

Ugh the viola sounds so sad and depressing. I rate it 100/10. It captured my spirit and soul magnificently.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yes indeed! It sounds so different than the violin. I love that sad sound as well. 😊

[@heatheredwards2591]

I have been playing the violin for almost two years and every time I play the lower part in Fiocco’s “Allegro,” I think, “Ooooh, I love that smooth, low sound.” So lately I’ve been thinking that maybe I need a viola, too. :)

[@windloll]

*viola gang viola gang viola gang viola gang viola gang viola gang viola gang* *spent ten racks on a c string* *i can’t stand your e string* *your girl gave me her g string* *still sound better than ling ling* *they call me the viola king* *viola gang viola gang viola gang*

[@skyguy3565]

You have no idea how it feels to play to be the underdog until you've played the double bass in in an orchestra

[@nordahl3725]

I actually started off playing the viola when i was a kid. It's a great instrument!

[@MarijkeViolin]

You don't hear that often. Nice! Do you still play?

[@tsoyuku1396]

Hi There! I am really suprised about how much you progressed. I have been playing the violin for 4 years and the viola for 2 years. I am happy you picked up both, the journey is fun from there! Viola is just as easy as the violin with a few things plus the alto clef. I am on Suzuki Book 3 for Viola right now. Good Luck!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Thanks! And so nice you play the viola as well, even both instruments! It gives many more possibilities in making music. 😊😊

[@parkyounghee4516]

I just started to learn viola. I've heard so many jokes about viola and viola players but I just fell in love with this instrument. For my ears viola is like a peacemaker among other classical strings. So looking forward the first lesson with a teacher next week.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Ooh that's awesome, good luck!

[@wellhelltherefellwhuman4637]

**holds back viola jokes**

[@chosenstrong9539]

Good 😊

[@leilanimiller8862]

I started to play the viola at the beginning of this year and I love it so much

[@MarijkeViolin]

Cool!

[@linda3104]

I'm violist and I never plaid the violin before I learned to play the viola. I just say that, because, when you want to play viola and not the violin, go for it! You don't need to play the violin first. Of yourse you can put viola strings on a 1/2 violin, so it's no problem when you're a child.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Very true indeed! Most people start out on the violin because it's more wellknown. And often people have even never heard of the viola! They just mistake it for a violin when they see a string quartet or orchestra.

[@sactownviolist2668]

I play both violin and viola, though obviously I greatly prefer viola. (My violin gets out of its case only three or four times a year these days.) Most violists start on violin. Part of the reason is that people are more aware of the violin, but the other reason is that it's hard to start viola at a very young age. Violas under 12" (the size of a half-size violin) are difficult to find, which means there aren't suitably sized violas for children younger than 7 or 8. Of course, for us late starters, that's not an issue. I started on violin, but actually wanted to play viola first. The main reason I started on violin was that I had a violin available to me for free. My great-uncle played the violin, but no one else in the family did, so after his death (before I was born) his violin just sat on shelves in first my grandfather's house and then my uncle's house for more than 20 years before I picked it up. The first time I ever went to hear a symphony orchestra in concert, the Walton viola concerto was on the program, so I heard the viola as a solo instrument before the violin and fell in love with it on the spot! Now that I play viola, there are a whole bunch of reasons I prefer it. I like surprising people by playing an underappreciated instrument. It turns out many of the greatest viola pieces are by lesser-known composers, and I enjoy introducing people to composers they've never heard of before. With the viola's role usually being the "glue" in ensembles, it's just a little bit more striking when the viola rises out of the middle of the harmony to get the main melody for a while, or even an extended solo. And especially in music from the Romantic and modern eras, I love playing the counter-melodies that the viola often gets.

[@sactownviolist2668]

A few examples of the viola moments I'm talking about... Dvorak, "American" String Quartet - a viola solo right at the beginning! Dvorak was a professional violist before he became famous as a composer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqPUmICorKxnn5I One of the big viola moments in Schumann's Piano Quartet, with a few seconds of lead-in so you can hear the viola emerge from it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppzcepSpjducl7Mm52s One of my favorite passages in Schubert's 9th Symphony, when the violas play a running 16th note countermelody under a slow melody in the woodwinds. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l33ZqpyqiMSfiLcm36s

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, people usually don't know about the viola. I really like them both in their own way. Very nice to read your story about how you got introduced to it! The solo at the beginning of the Dvorak string quartet sounds amazing!

[@davidvivsik6576]

If you already play violin, is viola hard to pick up?

[@yasmin06780]

I’m gonna start playing the viola soon!

[@Lepewhi]

I switched to viola when I was 15 or 16. My violin teacher asked me, but why? You are such a good violinist. I told him that I prefered the sound of the viola. He got a bit angry and told me that if I wanted to be a violist, sell my violin. He was trying to test me or challenge me. I sold it that week and bought a nice viola the next week. I went off to University as a viola major and played professionally. I am now retired, although, I do play chamber music. Violin and viola are not the same animal, as people think, just because they look alike. I do like the violin, but it is not my voice.

[@MarijkeViolin]

What a silly way of responding your teachr had! Mine was delighted and said: "Now we can start a student string quartet!" The techniques are similar, but the voice is indeed very different in tone and feel.

[@liamderosa2157]

I play both. I love them both equally.

[@k1llng583]

I play the viola for beginners here are the notes you should know. The 4 main notes are C (Lowest) G D A (Highest) C- Open (C) 1 finger (D) 2 fingers down (E) 3 fingers (F) G- Open (G) 1 finger (Holy crap i forgot the G SORRY--) D- open (D) 1 finger (E) 2 fingers (F) 3 fingers (G) A- open (A) 1 finger (B) 2 fingers (C) 3 Fingers (D) There are 2 sharps from what I'm learning. The 2 main sharps you need to know are F-Sharp and C-Sharp 2 fingers on D and A. The G major only has 1 sharp (I think-) the d has both sharps (I THINK) yes the viola is the only instrument that uses alto. Violas are actually harder to play then violin. don't ask why idk- I think it has to due because of the viola being heavier. Any beginners who wants to play an instrument I would say Viola. if you like to challenge yourself play Viola. violas have lower sounds which is calmer to the ear. 👹

[@cosettea1986]

I like the swan too! It's so beautiful!!!!!! Keep on playing viola! Amazing video

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, viola is great! 😎

[@edwinoliveras8221]

Hi Marijke ! I ran into your video by accident today ( Feb. 17, '23) , and I'm glad , because I want to learn how to play the viola from you . First time I see you and I loved your personality , you are sooo funny ...and I like that. Thanks for t

[@TheSIGHTREADINGProject]

Hooray another viola beginner! I’ve been learning for 16 months now as a total strings beginner. Funny about your husband preferring how practice sounds on the viola! I am learning piano too (5yrs) but a teacher at my sons school kindly started ‘parent viola classes’ which is how a group of us got started. It’s wonderful! I love Celtic fiddle so I wouldn’t rule out picking up a violin at a later stage too. I’ve got a fiddle book for viola but they are less common

[@ssimms8995]

Since I am in music class, thankfully I already know the alto clef, and tenor (since I have a cello). I can't wait

[@MarijkeViolin]

That really helps! 😀 Good luck!

[@christophertsiliacos8958]

Hi Marijke - "What do you think about the viola?" I, too, like the viola. However, I play the violin among many other treble clef instruments. As for me, I do not play the viola. As you pointed out, in order to play the viola one needs to know the alto clef. I only read and play music in the treble [G] clef. Congratulations on learning another music language - the alto clef. BTW: If you learn to play the cello and/or bass you'll be trilingual(!) - knowing three music languages - treble clef for the violin, alto clef for the viola and bass clef for the cello and/or bass. I give a big thumbs-up for piano players for having not only reading and playing two clefs - but having to read and play the two clefs (treble and bass) simultaneously. 😊 ♫ 🎻 🎹

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, reading two clefs is quite something! I won't lie, I'm curious for the cello as well. But I wouldn't have the time for all of them, while I'm also working and making videos. But who knows. 😉

[@CELLOLOVER2011]

@@MarijkeViolin if you start learning the cello. You'll be learning two other clefs. My main instrument is the cello. But I also play the violin and viola. With the cello you'll get to learn bass and tenor cleff :)

[@Guuzaka]

3:45 Alto trombones and some of the gambas predominantly play from it as well, so violas surprisingly have company. 😅 Some say mondolas also use it, but I'm not 100% sure about that one....😶

[@MarijkeViolin]

That's interesting to know! 🙂

[@sophieparata1958]

I am 13 and going to learn the Viola this year, I wanted to come to some videos and see other peoples experiences with learning the thing. I have experience with the piano and clarinet so I wouldn't say I am familiar with string instruments but the viola has always been something I wanted to learn how to play. I hope that I can grow with my music and say that I can play the viola. Wish me luck and to anyone else who is going to try as well !

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yay, good luck! ❤

[@dannydruff6731]

Much love! Thanks for the help!

[@theoverunderthinker]

FYI, English horn and Trombone players also use the Alto clef sometimes (depending on the piece they are playing) I have heard of bassoon parts as well, but have never seen it, but viola uses it almost all of the time. So violas don't have the clef exclusively, but nearly so. :)

[@smallvillepodbr3]

I took up violin classes in August 2022. In February 2023 I decided to shift to viola. Luckily, my teacher teaches (and can play) both. He was also very excited that I decided to become a violist. But I'm still a real beginner. I like the viola for it's deeper sound as compared to the violin.

[@gabrielgilliam6888]

I'm a tall 6'2" man with big hands so I naturally migrated to the viola rather than the violin because it was much easier for me to handle for obvious reasons, I just started to learn and excited to watch your 3 month video series

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, that seems like a good fit. And I sometimes think a violin looks like a toy in the hands of a very tall person. 😋 And nice to hear you are looking forward to the viola progress video. 🙂

[@tharvgm6348]

Probably one day I will check it out, but for now I have my hands full already as I play 3 instruments on a daily basis

[@MarijkeViolin]

Woohaa, that indeed must keep you occupied!

[@christophertsiliacos8958]

TharTV - I can relate to that. I play 21 instruments, and it takes me at least a week to get through my entire repertoire of string, wind and brass instruments. 🎼 ♫ 🎸 🎺 🎻 🎷 et al

[@Silver-jd6xi]

Christopher Tsiliacos Woah! That’s a handful! I’ve only played flute, piano, ukelele (like once or twice but I’ve touched one and played one so that counts), recorder (a long time ago in elementary school but it counts as an instrument), marimba, planning for violin, and that’s about it, not much but I’ve had my share of instruments too.

[@StarmoongalASMR]

Wow viola! You sound great on it already, those scales sounded on point to me :) Excited to see your progress on the viola! :)

[@MarijkeViolin]

Haha, it took a few minutes of constant redoing it before I played a decent sounding scale from low to high and back. The wider finger spacings are still a bit tough. But the viola isn't as daunting as I thought it was. The different and heavy way of bowing is the hardest thing so far. And yes, I'm excited to learn!

[@sactownviolist2668]

It's similar for me when switching to violin after months of playing only viola... it takes less than a minute to get used to the narrower finger spacings, but at least half an hour to get used to the lighter bowing required for violin because I play violin so rarely. I've seen something similar to your experience recently, too. My girlfriend, an experienced amateur violinist, tried out my viola this summer. The finger spacings didn't take long at all; she nailed a two-octave G major scale on viola on just her second attempt. It was much harder for her to get used to digging into the string, because if you play that way on a violin, it sounds gritty and choked.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, true! Funny to hear other people experience the same.

[@cjcgaming7265]

Hi! I started playing the viola in school many many years ago. I haven't really tried playing the violin because I prefer the lower, more mellow sound of the viola. And also, although in orchestral arrangements we often get boring parts some composers (like Mozart!) have written very complex and interesting parts for the viola. I actually have not played in a long time but am trying to pick it back up. Videos like yours help me feel motivated! Thank you!

[@MarijkeViolin]

That's interesting to read, because most people start out on the violin. I can't decide which of the two I like better, I really like them both. And it's supernice to read this video motivated you! 😄

[@Musicienne-DAB1995]

Interesting video! I love both the violin and viola, and would like to learn both.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Well, pick one to start and later on you can always learn the other one too. ☺️

[@otv88]

I’m learning about strings and this is very helpful. Thank you.

[@quobble8069]

I play viola, and its gorgeous, and very fun to advance. Highly recommend!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, the C string is da bomb!

[@fourwheelernut9576]

A tip put more weight into the bow I have trouble with that to it just gives it a deeper sound

[@FidlerBrit]

Marijke - you are so cute!!! I’m looking forward to seeing how you do on the viola. I am a pro violinist and violist in New York and love them both. I will be very curious to see how you progressed - you probably will realize some added benefits to your violin playing from your playing the viola because each instrument expands your “sound horizon” and expands your technique on the other instrument with the different finger and hand placement, bow pressure, speed of vibrato, and even repertoire you get to play (eg, stealing cello parts that work well on the viola!)

[@MarijkeViolin]

Hi, thank you! Yes, I have discovered some benefits already. I noticed my violin bowing got smoother because I have to pay extra attention to it when playing the viola. And yes, being able to play cello parts is da bomb! The viola progress video will come later this month. 🙂

[@davidhunter1538]

I have never played either, but I want to try the violin because I like the sweet high notes it can make.

[@zain4019]

1:46 IVE BEEN SEARCHING FOR SCALES ON BOTH INSTRUMENTS EVERYWHERE THANK YOU I FINALLY FOUND IT. Sorry for shouting tho

[@MarijkeViolin]

You're welcome! 🙂

[@_AmazingLaura]

The Swan! ♡ I love this piece so much. So cool that you started learning the viola. I like the viola but I want to learn how to play the cello :)

[@MarijkeViolin]

The Swan is indeed lovely! I want to play cello as well, haha, but viola is more similar to violin so results come quite fast. Plus, I don't need to take extra lessons with another teacher. But cello is still on my list to have a go at!

[@arthurivex2298]

I come from the fast playing guitar shredding world, seen some violinist play and became interested in that assuming it would be easy (but it was not), now the viola looks and sounds like a great instrument to learn with deeper/darker tones. So once I get decent on violin, I'll switch over to the viola. Thanks for the video!

[@learningkeyboard]

I actually want to start playing a string instrument and I am thinking of the viola (I like the lower sound of it)

[@botaco]

I played the violin 60 years ago. I started playing cello at 73. Now I am playing an Octave carbon fiber viola. It is basically a small cello. I don’t play well on any of them but I love them all, especially the Octave Viola.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Oh, that is great! We are never too old to learn, and the joy it gives you is more important than how good you can play. I'd like to get a carbon fiber violin for outdoor performing one day. Keep on playing! 😊

[@puffin140]

I am really interested in your progress, as I have been learning the violin for a year, and would like to take up the viola too.

[@MarijkeViolin]

I have uploaded a viola progress video a while after this video, it should give you an idea of what it's like. It is important to have gained a proper base technique on the violin though before switching, otherwise it can get confusing. I picked up the viola after 2.5 years of playing the violin, on advice of my teacher.

[@chad7917]

The finger board on the viola is longer so you need to space out your fingers more to play with good intonation

[@MarijkeViolin]

True. Luckily it's not too hard to get used to.

[@elisaevans6371]

Hello, glad you joined the dark side! I learnt the violin growing up but didn't have time or money to learn anything else but piano. I took up the cello as an adult learner 3.5 years ago, singing 1 year ago and finally viola in July 2018. Basically too many cellists in my local orchestra so I switched to viola. I prefer the viola to the violin and probably won't go back. I have formed a quartet and it is so handy being able to play any of the parts 😊 Good luck with your violin and viola studies. Maybe cello one day?!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Oh, that's an interesting journey! Cello is definitely on my list to try one day. 😊

[@elisaevans6371]

@@MarijkeViolin for sure! Cello is what I've been missing my whole life. It is even better than the viola or violin. However you need to be able to read bass, tenor and treble clef. Complete the set! 👍

[@SeiraChii]

Viola sounds fun! I will stay with violin but maybe in future I will try it out who know ☺️

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yes! Very different actually from violin in color, sound and feel.

[@FelipeArtista]

I've been a percussionist all my life, but took up the violin a few years ago when my son started learning. The small string spacing hurts my fingers after a while, so I've been thinking of moving to the viola... but that E string on the violin is to die for. I do mostly vocals now anyway, so I'll probably stick to the violin.

[@MarijkeViolin]

It never hurts to try something else. I really like them both, can't say which I prefer. 🙂

[@heart.to.heart.23]

I love playing the viola because of the rich sound it produces. But playing on the C string can be such a workout, especially when you have to put so much more force into your bowing to make a sound. And then I also find it harder to vibrato on the C string as a result. I feel like although the gaps are much wider than a violin when playing, you can always shift up to other positions and practise at making the transition smooth. Also playing higher up the C string can give such a beautiful sound rather than playing on the G string on the violin. Keep up the good work and if you like viola you should definitely continue playing ;)

[@livioribeiro]

I used to play the guitar (classical and electric) and last year I decided to try the viola and I fell in love with it! Now I feel bad that I didn't start 10 years ago when I had the opportunity :P

[@livioribeiro]

And I just realized that you use the same chin rest that I use :D

[@MarijkeViolin]

Well, sometimes I wish too I started at 20 or even earlier, but then I would probably not have the motivation/dedication and the free time I have now. And I would probably not have a youtube channel that encourages dozens of people around the world to start playing. It's never too late to start and you will play amazing stuff in a few years time!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yes, the Wittner chinrests are super comfy!

[@thefisherking78]

I'm 45 and I've been thinking about learning to play one of these since high school. Now that I've finally decided to get serious about it, I find myself leaning towards viola because I just like to be weird. But maybe I'll try both eventually like you.

[@starman2671]

I switched to viola from violin folk music. I found beginner songs that had most of the notes in them, it didn't take long. I put the tuning thing where I can see it and I think it's a bad idea to put the tapes on the finger positions because you train yourself to look where you put your fingers. I don't know exactly how it works but occasionally looking at the tuner especially when you think you're off on a note has helped to get the notes right.

[@karolinablythe4490]

I played the violin for 9 years but this year my violin teacher told me that i have too long fingers for the violin and now i’m going to play the viola 😊

[@ssimms8995]

I am a violinist of 7 years, and am going to get a viola this month. I heard it helps to improve a violinist's tone, and I love the deep mellow sounding instruments. I want to teach music, so I think knowing the viola will help if I ever teach an orchestra class. Plus, maybe I can use it to audition for college since there are SO many violinists lol

[@MarijkeViolin]

That's awesome to hear! Yes, it widens your musical horizon, and I notice already that I listen with a more critical ear when playing. And indeed, with viola you have more options in college!

[@ssimms8995]

Marijke plays I am glad. My violin intonation is usually pretty food since I am a pianist of 10 years, but I need a better violin tone. I play very lightly and don’t get much volume on my violin. I know the viola will help as you need a bit more effort to play the viola. I am subscribing, and excited to see the viola progress video. The violin one was amazing

[@MarijkeViolin]

Prepare for using much force on the viola, haha. And thanks for subscribing! 😀

[@ricardorodriguesdossantosr1150]

perfect sound!

[@alinasophie02]

I start play the violin tomorrow. I'm realmy nevous... But I think the viola is also a really nice instrument. I want to see the viola progress video😍

[@MarijkeViolin]

Ooh awesome! I hope you'll love it! 😀

[@alinasophie02]

@@MarijkeViolin I was terrible. But it was really nice😂👌

[@AdrianGarcia-yf1tb]

I'm a viola, the reason why is that my brother first inspired me to play an instrument so I decided to join orchestra in 5th grade. I didn't want to play the cello because my brother was already playing the cello and I didn't want to play the violin cause I wanted to play something different so I choose the viola. Also a group of my friends were playing the viola so obviously I would play the viola. You did a great job trying to play the viola I still have a long way ahead of me until I reach your level.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Cool! Yes, it's fun to pick something not everybody already does. And I don't play it well at all yet but thank you. 😊

[@chad7917]

After a while the force becomes second nature

[@paulieboy6644]

I gave up the viola as a teenager. Now that I’m an adult with disposable income and time, I’m learning to play the viola again. I’m enjoy the journey!

[@mj_4658]

I'm in a the beginner orchestra at my middle school in getting way better we will get better together

[@kosukemiura1226]

when i first got a viola as a violinist i was like "its huge"

[@jaelynnkim1801]

I love the viola and i play it

[@johnw6610]

I borrowed a Viola yesterday! :D Wish me luck.

[@mccypr]

I’m considering it for the same reasons that you chose.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Nice!

[@ashemayo]

ah see Im a bass clarinet, not a popular instrument, and now I'm a Viola. I'm not a fan of violin but I also which I could have played cello, as I love low tones, but can only reach low c in tenor or low b in treble. but I love it still!

[@sandimiller5187]

Congrats, viola are so nice. I started out with a 16" but it was uncomfortable and stepped down to 15". It doesn't have as deep a sound but still nice The only difficulty I had going from violin to viola was messing up my bowing due to the neck length and width

[@danielstraight4503]

In the most recent orchestra I've played in, I sat right next to the violas. 'Twas interesting.

[@MarijkeViolin]

It sure is!

[@dianaslav81]

I love your channel

[@Fidi987]

I once considered buying a cheaper viola for fun and teaching myself. But then I discovered that the tones are in completely different places on the fingerboard and that would drive me nuts. It would give me a complete knot in my brain to switch back and forth between these fingerings. I had assumed I would be able to play an easy piece by just placing the fingers similarly to the violin, but nope, completely impossible, as far as I know!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yes, the G string is in the place where the D string normally is on a violin and so on. It basically means you have to play everything one the string to the right. If you play the viola exactly the same way as the violin, you'd automatically play everything a fifth lower.

[@mccypr]

Alto clef! Thanks!

[@LinhNguyen-di5bz]

I still prefer violin sound. E string is such a magical string. When violinist plays high note on E string in slow lyrical piece (like Fantasia on Thomas Tallis by Vaughan Williams), it sounds majestic and heaven-like. Great job with your viola attempts. It sounds great already, you must have a good foundation with violin playing. Looking forward to the progress video.

[@MarijkeViolin]

The E string: it's wonderful but also tricky, not to mention the squeaks! But it can bring you to tears. 🙂 I'm curious how it'll go after 3 months.

[@edwinoliveras8221]

....thanks for the video..your friend from Puerto Rico , Edwin Oliveras

[@codyv308]

i just picked up my first viola last week, ive only ever played guitar and banjo before now. It is... interesting, to say the least.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Wow, nice! Have fun!

[@iris367]

I play the viola. I started with the violin but not for a long time (just 1 year), and I really prefer viola ! Feelings in bowing and vibrato are completely different. The sound on the viola is deeper, smoother... I really love it !!!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Supercool! And yes, they're completely different! First I thought 5-string violins covered both worlds, but they definitely don't.

[@michaelreaper666]

Thats cool Marijke.. look forward to see your progress ..Viola is a nice instrument ..deeper sounds

[@MarijkeViolin]

Yes, the deeper sound is very nice!

[@johnnylyons3003]

I play Celtic Fiddle and have been curious of the Viola - rich mellow sound \ Might be worth while doing a rental to "fiddle" with since it has G-D-A strings thanks for the inspiration ! cheersaye

[@MarijkeViolin]

Renting one is an easy and cheap way to have a go at it, and you can return it anytime. Yes, the G/D/A strings are already very familiar, but still it sounds like a completely different instrument.

[@rubaabdul7931]

Wow that's great ❤🌻

[@MarijkeViolin]

🙂

[@professorbernardo8496]

I took a strings class as an undergrad for my music education major and I enjoyed the cello and viola more than the violin. I started playing ukulele about 5yrs ago and have played several solo gigs on it. I thought of including some violin music to my repertoire (happy birthday and Las mananitas just for fun and I was able to find an inexpensive violin to start with. But, I think I might have practiced too much and hurt myself because I have large hands, the closeness of the fingerings and the angle of the instrument being too close. I got some tingling in my ring finger, pinky, thumb, elbow, and upper arm trying to use 4th finger. I was thinking that maybe I should get a viola and see if it is more comfortable. What do you think?

[@paulawashington8187]

The viola is not the only instrument that uses the alto clef. Alto trombone also uses it. Trombonists must learn alto, tenor and bass clefs if they are to play orchestral works by all composers. Also, the alto clef is the most logical; middle C is on the middle line. It is in the middle where it belongs. When learning to read in different clefs it is useful to think in terms of the eleven-line grand staff. That way you can see how one clef relates to another, each using a selection of five lines out of the eleven, and you won't be tempted to confuse their registers.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Nice to know!

[@ozpin707]

I have a question, can you play violin sheet music on the viola?? I just got one as a gift and would love to learn to play, but I literally can’t find ANYTHING that isn’t Violin music. I know it’s a lower sound but could I still use violin music?

[@thomassicard3733]

Viola is the human voice of the string family. Not an underdog in my opinion, rather it is the finest glory of all strings.

[@Guilhermedetiuki]

As a violist I can say that it is so much easier instead of press the bow, try to change your contact point, go more nearby the bridge... The bridge creates the pressure that you need.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Nice to know! 🙂 I returned my (rental) viola after a year or so, I only used it in string quartet and then COVID came along, so it was just sitting in its case. I really liked it, but keeping up with two instruments wasn't very doable in the end.

[@Guilhermedetiuki]

@@MarijkeViolin Yes... it is hard. But learning the viola makes you be better at the violin, to make the sound like a violin in the viola you need to learn somethings, like: The low strings has a different way to play. They are more heavier and you always need to change the contact point there. To make a louder sound, you need to make the string start be moving to then apply speed. As i said, change your contact point to dont use so much pressure. The viola vibrato it is different from violin vibratto. And the rosin it is different too, try to use a rosin that improve your speed, not your pressure.

[@Guilhermedetiuki]

@@MarijkeViolin Basically, the viola it is the middle voice of the cello and violin, so the high notes you apply the "violin rules" and the lower notes the "cello rules".

[@MarijkeViolin]

🙂✨

[@koeien9939]

i play both violin and viola too!! i'd say violin is easier for the right hand especially when you're doing stuff like spiccato because the movement can come from the fingers / wrist and the bow can still catch the string nicely but on viola you need to put in more arm movemenr before it sounds :\ but on the plus side, you don't have to squish your fingers together in high positions on the viola!!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Cool you play both! And true indeed! 🙂

[@gigabytegallery7305]

I've played guitar for 15+ years, but slowed down due to arthritis. I wasn't sure what to expect from a violin, felt a bit of pain readjusting my form & posture. But now that I'm getting the gist of it. I've been curious about how the viola will be like for me.

[@MariaFlorenciay]

nice!

[@Lilypad_qq]

My teacher used to call the alto clef the "Viola" clef

[@MarijkeViolin]

Indeed, I've heard people say that too.

[@renskreuzen8612]

super tof ik heb maandag een proefles viool om te zien of ik het leuk vind dus super veel zin in. en ik vind je video's super inspirerend

[@MarijkeViolin]

Ooh dat is gaaf! Ik hoop dat je het leuk vindt. 🙂 En dank je wel!

[@nickfarinacci1776]

Wonderful personality, and beautiful girl. Good luck on the Viola, I think you'll do fine.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Thank you. 😊 I'm a year in now, I still like the viola but I only practice it for upcoming string quartet rehearsals. My main practice is on the violin.

[@rogercawkwell5413]

Some orchestral trombone parts use alto clef, though tenor is more often used.

[@MarijkeViolin]

Nice to know! 🙂

[@dragofire9078]

My fellow violas uniteeeee

[@ALoonwolf]

Musical notation: "Look at this beautiful graphical representation of the music." Treble Clef: "Zero is here, simple isn't it?" :D Bass Clef: "Zero is now here." :/ Alto Clef: "Got a new zero for you." >:(

[@7Rafael7]

I prefer the velvety sound of the viola. In the string family the violin is the Chihuahua, the viola is the German shepherd and the cello is the St. Bernard..

[@HowardJohnstone]

There is a shortcut to the Viola, learn the basic techniques, notation and positions (3rd) et al on a 14" Viola (same size as the Violin). Then make the change to 16" or 16,5" (17") when you are ready to concentrate on size and the new positions. Save months of time!

[@MarijkeViolin]

Sounds nice! 🙂

[@flippinmachine]

I actually started on the viola but after about 1,5 years of playing I switched to the violin because there is much more sheetmusic for the violin. So I had to suddenly learn the G cleff. I do like the sound of the viola more but its much more exhausting for your body and thats also a reason that I switched to the violin. Plus I wanted to play music that got very high so then a violin is the obvious choice. Now I´m playing for close to 2,5 years in total (Viola+violin) and one day I might switch back to the viola. By the way, how long are you playing violin now? I have the idea that we are playing almost exactly as long XD

[@MarijkeViolin]

They both have their perks. Indeed, viola is physically harder. I play the violin for almost 2.5 years and viola since September.

[@flippinmachine]

@@MarijkeViolin Ah Nice we play exactly as long violin :p and im dutch too

[@MarijkeViolin]

Hee, leuk!

[@kris-yp6yj]

Is not true that only the viola read in the alto clef, the tenor trombone sometimes reads in this cleaf, the tenor clef is very common too and obviously the bass clef. The alto trombone always reads in Alto clef, because the range is very high for a bass clef, but I prefer the tenor clef.

[@croonch6538]

I have been playing guitar for about a year now and I kind of want to play the viola. It sounds absolutely beautiful, and I feel as though I can relate to it because I'm an alto in choir and it's sort of the alto in the orchestra string section. Should I play it? I'm willing to play, though I'm not sure

[@chosenstrong9539]

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