Month 2: Musical Storytelling - Creating Characters with Your Strings

“Strings of gut, synthetic, or steel,

Each with their own unique appeal.

Gently wipe them after you play,

And a warm, rich tone is here to stay.”

Welcome to the second instalment of the 12 Month Series for Young Violists in the ALTOgether blog! This month, we focus on helping young students connect to their instrument through the magical world of storytelling. We will use our viola strings to bring characters to life and tell captivating stories through music. By creating imaginative connections between the strings and the stories we tell, we'll make the learning process engaging and enjoyable.

Each of the four strings on the viola has its unique characteristics and sound qualities:

C string: the lowest and thickest of the four, has a rich, dark, and mysterious tone 

G string: one step higher, offers a warm and sonorous sound

D string: sitting in the middle, possesses a more balanced and versatile timbre 

A string: the highest, shines with a bright and brilliant sound

WALL POSTER - viola fingering chart

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WALL POSTER - viola fingering chart 〰️

the Storytelling Adventure Takes Shape

1. Assign Different Characters and Personalities to each String

For example, the C string might represent a wise old wizard who guards an enchanted forest. The G string could be a brave and noble knight on a quest to save a kingdom, while the D string might be a mischievous fairy who loves to play tricks on unsuspecting travelers. Lastly, the A string could represent a beautiful princess with a powerful and enchanting voice.

2. Create the Story

With our characters in place, it's time to create a story. Encourage students to let their imaginations run wild as they weave together a tale that incorporates each of the string characters. For example, the knight might embark on a journey through the enchanted forest to rescue the princess, all the while encountering the tricks and pranks of the playful fairy.

3. Bring it to Life

Once the story is complete, it's time to bring it to life on the viola. Guide students through the process of translating their narrative into music. They can use different techniques, such as long, sweeping bow strokes for the knight's heroic adventures or short, playful pizzicato for the fairy's mischievous antics. Encourage students to experiment with dynamics, articulation, and phrasing to create an engaging and expressive musical story.

To further immerse students in the storytelling experience, consider incorporating visual and tactile elements. Have them create illustrations of their string characters or design a map of their story's setting. Encourage them to bring in props, such as a wizard's hat or a toy sword, to help them get into character.

The Hidden Treasure

In addition to fostering creativity and imagination, this storytelling approach to viola playing also helps students develop essential technical skills. As they focus on bringing their characters to life, students will naturally work on aspects such as tone production, intonation, and bow control.

Take it One Step Further

Consider hosting a "viola storytime" event, where students can showcase their musical tales for family and friends. This provides a fun and supportive performance opportunity while celebrating the students' hard work and creativity.

Finale

By transforming viola strings into characters and stories, students can engage their imagination and creativity while developing essential technical skills. This fun and immersive approach will make the learning process enjoyable, memorable, and truly magical. Join us next month, as we explore mindful mindful exercises inspired by yoga to develop a strong and comfortable foundation for playing the viola.

I would love to hear from you, did you find this post useful? Let me know below.

Month 1: The ABCs of Viola - Choosing the Right Instrument and Bow

A shiny viola caught my eye,

A perfect match, I can't deny.

With bow in hand, I'm feeling spry,

Together we shall reach the sky!

Welcome to the first instalment of our creative and engaging viola blog for beginners! In this month's blog, we'll embark on an exciting journey as we explore the enchanting world of the viola. We'll learn about the unique characteristics of this beautiful instrument and help you find the perfect viola and bow to suit your individual needs. Let's dive in!

The viola, often described as the "middle child" of the string family, boasts a rich and warm tone that sets it apart from its siblings, the violin and cello. As a violist, you'll have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of musical genres and styles, making the learning process engaging and diverse.

Viola Fashion Show - try many instruments!

To start your viola journey, it's crucial to find the right instrument and bow. When selecting a viola, consider size, material, and sound quality. Violas come in various sizes, typically ranging from 12 to 16.5 inches. To find the perfect fit, consult a teacher or a professional at a string specialist store who can guide you through the measuring process. Remember, comfort is key when playing the viola, so finding the correct size will help prevent strain and discomfort.

To make the journey enjoyable and successful, follow these steps:

1. Size Matters

   As violas come in different sizes, it's essential to find one that fits your body comfortably. Measure your arm length, from the base of your neck to the center of your palm, to determine the appropriate viola size for you. Consult your teacher or a knowledgeable music store staff member to assist with proper sizing.

2. The Sound of Mystery

   Each viola has a unique voice, and finding the one that resonates with you is part of the adventure. Play various instruments and pay attention to their tonal qualities. Do you prefer a warm, rich sound or a brighter, more focused tone? Trust your instincts and let your ears guide you.

3. Setup for success

   make sure your viola has been set up by a professional luthier, this can make all the difference, so make sure you go to a string specialist store or a luthier directly.

4. Strings Attached

   The strings you choose can greatly impact the sound and playability of your viola. There are many options available, from synthetic-core to gut-core strings. Consult your teacher or fellow violists for recommendations, and don't be afraid to try various strings to find the perfect match.

5. The Enchanted Case

   Your viola is a treasure, and you'll want to protect it with a sturdy and reliable case. Look for a case with proper support and padding, as well as ample storage for accessories like rosin, sheet music, and a shoulder rest.

6. Trust Your Guide

   Don't be shy about seeking advice from your teacher, fellow violists, or knowledgeable music store staff. They can provide valuable insights and guide you on your quest to find the perfect viola and bow.

Fabric Magic

Next, let's explore the material of the viola. Beginner violas can be made from laminate or plywood, but beware, violas crafted from solid wood, such as maple and spruce produce a richer and more resonant sound, which is super important for a violist. Plywood cannot withstand the tension of the strings for long. I would always encourage you to be happy with the sound of the instrument, and balance your budget with your expectations for sound quality. Always try out several instruments in your price range to determine which one feels and sounds the best for you.

Bow Treasure Hunt - finding the best match for your viola

Now that you have an idea of what to look for in a viola, it's time to choose the right bow. Bows come in various materials, including Pernambuco, carbon fiber, Brazilwood, and fiberglass. Each material offers different benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to find a bow that suits your needs and preferences. Pernambuco bows are considered the gold standard for string players, offering excellent balance, strength, and flexibility. However, due to over-harvesting and deforestation in the past, Pernambuco wood is now a protected species and many musicians are choosing other materials. Carbon fiber bows are a popular alternative, providing a great balance of weight, strength, and affordability. Brazilwood bows are more budget-friendly, offering decent performance for their price. Fiberglass bows are the most affordable option and are ideal for young players who are still learning the basics, but you may want to invest in a higher-quality bow, which will give you greater control and a wider range of tonal colors to work with.

It is important to test multiple bows with your viola to find the one that feels comfortable and draws out the best sound from your instrument. Don't be afraid to ask for advice from your teacher or professionals at a string specialist store – they can offer valuable guidance in finding the right bow for you.

Finale

In summary, selecting the perfect viola and bow is an essential first step in your journey as a violist. By taking the time to choose the right equipment, you'll set yourself up for success and enjoyment in the wonderful world of viola playing. Listen carefully to the tone of each instrument and feel for ease of playing and comfort and you will stay on the right track. 

Stay tuned for next month's instalment, where we'll use our imagination to create musical stories with our viola strings, transforming the learning process into a thrilling adventure!

I would love to hear from you, did you find this post useful? Let me know below.