INSTRUMENTS IN THE ORCHESTRA: (2) The Viola
"T°HE second of a_ series of short articles on the instruments of the National Orchestra, written to help interested listeners towards a more informed appreciation of orchestral music and a better understanding of the resources at the command of the conductor
HE viola section of the orchestra is almost invariably ©" situated on the conductor’s ‘right, immediately up-stage from ‘the second violins. The unaccus‘tomed eye may heve difficulty at
first in picking out the violas from the violins, as both are played in the same manner and held in the same position. There is in fact little difference between the two instruments. Their acoustical principles are the same, but although the viola is larger than the violin it is generally agreed that it is too small for its pitch (it is an alto instrument, tuned a fifth lower than the violin) and as a result its tone lacks brilliance and incisiveness. The viola pomposa, an instrument invented by J. S. Bach, was larger, had five strings and produced a
far better tone, but it was abandoned as too tiring to hold and play. Because of its limitations the viola is not a good solo instrument, although many composers have written works specially for it and such players as Lionel ‘Tertis have won for them a lasting place in the concert repertoire. But the viola is an indispensable member of the orchestra and is of great importance in chamber music ensembles. There are seven in the National Orchestra.
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New Zealand Listener, Volume 17, Issue 421, 18 July 1947, Page 16
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253INSTRUMENTS IN THE ORCHESTRA: (2) The Viola New Zealand Listener, Volume 17, Issue 421, 18 July 1947, Page 16
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