Here is some basic information for you to consider when you are planning on taking viola lessons

Basic Viola Info

A viola is a musical instrument with 4 strings. The strings can be plucked by a finger or can be played by a bow. A person who plays viola is called a violist.

Sizes of Violas

Violas are larger than violins. There are many different sized violas.

Renting VS Buying a Viola

If your child is still growing (usually ages 7-12, give or take) it is not advisable to purchase an instrument because most children cannot comfortably learn on a full size viola. Instead, we reccommended you rent a viola until you are sure the child will stick with it or when they have grown enough to use a full size viola comfortably.

Violas are not made in sizes that work for young children, so often you must have a violin strung with viola strings if a smaller instrument is required.

Many music stores in the area have rental programs, and often they will allow you to put your rental payments towards the purchase of an instrument in the future.

Mass Produced Instruments

Please do not purchase a mass produced instrument. They may be very affordable, but you get what you pay for- the quality of these instruments is almost always low and playing on this type of instrument will likely negatively impact your child's learning experience.

Viola Accessories

Shoulder Rest	Buy a shoulder rest.We cannot stress the importance of this enough! Playing without an appropriate shoulder rest causes back problems. Kun, Muco, or Everrest brands are acceptable. Don't buy the cheap foam versions of shoulder rests.
Music Stand	Posture is very important for viola. Having a music stand helps to avoid back problems from hunching over to see music!
Soft Cloth	A soft cloth is used to clean rosin off of viola after practice sessions.
Extra Set of Strings	Strings are easy to replace if they break. This is a rare occurence if you take proper care of your instrument, but always be prepared!
Rosin	Rosin is applied to the bow to help it pull across the string and produce sound.

OC Viola Shops

Foster's Violin Shop
224 South Olive
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 639 - 4480

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