The viola (/ viˈoʊlə / vee-OH-lə, [1] (ⓘ) Italian: [ˈvjɔːla, viˈɔːla]) is a string instrument of the violin family, and is usually bowed when played. Violas are slightly larger than violins, and have a lower sound.

Viola, stringed musical instrument, the tenor of the violin family. It is built in proportions similar to those of the violin but has a body length of 37 to 43 cm (14.5 to 17 inches), about 5 cm (2 inches) longer …

Dec 13, 2025 · We are an organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting the viola and those who love it.

Known as the "big fiddle," the viola serves as the middle voice because of its mid-range in the stringed instrument family, between the upper lines played by the violin and the lower lines played by the cello …

In this series you'll learn about violas, bows, strings, and many other related topics. The idea behind this series is to give you a good synopsis of what you need to know about the viola, from what to look for …

ViolaOnline.com offers free viola sheet music and free online viola lessons and viola instruction for all ages.

The viola has perhaps suffered the ups and downs of musical treatment more than any other stringed-instrument. In the late sixteenth and early seventeenth century it held much the same position in the …

This page explores the viola through its many forms, roles, and traditions within the world of musical instruments. You’ll discover how design, size, and materials influence its tone, how different playing …

Discover the characteristics, sound, and history of the viola, the older sibling of the violin. Learn more about the topic on Handmade Sound.

The viola is probably the oldest of today's main stringed orchestral instruments, predating the cello, violin and string bass. However, it is easily the least familiar of the group.