Your First Viola Experience
Everyone’s viola journey begins somewhere—what was your first experience with the viola?
Did you start on the violin and decided to switch to viola? If so why? Did you fall in love with the instrument instantly, or was it a gradual process? Whether you’ve been playing for years or just picked it up recently, we’d love to hear your story.
Share what initially drew you to the viola, your first lessons, and how your relationship with the instrument has evolved over time.
2 replies
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I was offered the choice around 5th grade in public school between violin viola or cello. I picked viola because it was not as popular at the time and I wanted to be different. Lois Kear said, “are you sure” yes I said She later arranged for lessons for me from another legendary teacher Lorene Gunderson. They planted the seed in me that was dormant for many years till in my 30s and then again once my children got older. I’m very grateful again for some other teachers that have shared their love and passion for the viola with me and I am even older now and still studying, learning and loving viola and all the great music I can be a part of.
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I started on the viola in Suzuki when I was 5 years old. Kids dropped of during the years and I began to play the violin besides to be able to play in a group but soon after I could join the chamber orchestra and I felt comfortable to play with people again so it all went back to “normal”. I couldn’t imagine play any other sting instrument. Viola is perfect for me. Not too high not too low, I love to be the link in chamber music and to play as I speak.