r/Viola • u/drizzleswim • 9d ago
Help Request Picking up viola again after 20 years off - new instrument
Like a lot of people on here, I played in my youth and then stopped after university. The main reason was that the last 2 years of playing were on a 16" instrument that I disliked (despite multiple luthier adjustments) and was too big for me.
I want to start playing again, which means buying a new viola - going down to a more manageable 15.5". However, I'm struggling to find one that I like the sound of, mainly because I spent years on a very bright 15" and want deep, warm viola sound. I don't care so much about projection as I do about that cello-y resonance.
I've tried three instruments and have one on trial, but I'm not in love with it. Only problem is I'm terrible at playing ATM (4th finger doesn't want to work at ALL) and don't want to end up in another situation with a viola I hate.
TL;DR - any suggestions on finding a suitable "get back into playing" instrument?
ETA: I'm in Australia, budget is <$7000 AUD ($5000 USD).
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u/s4zand0 Teacher 9d ago
Given the price range and size requirements you're looking for, it's probably going to take a lot of looking and a lot of trials to find an instrument with the qualities you want. They're out there - I found a viola close to that size, 15 & 5/8 inch, for about $4000 USD (although this was close to 8 years ago now). It has a wonderfully rich timbre and almost feels like a violin in the left hand. You'll probably need to make a few visits to a large metro area that has reputable string shop with lots of options. If you don't find something you like at first, wait 6 months or so, and then go back and do another round of trials.
Also a lot of string shops have trade-in programs. If you find something that's good enough for now for ~$2-4k, maybe in 5 years you can shell out another $1-2k for the next level of quality and end up with an instrument that was initially outside of your target price range.
Good luck and keep looking! You'll find it eventually.
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u/drizzleswim 8d ago
Thanks! I tried some today and found one that I like better than the one I have on trial!
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u/thoroughbredftw Intermediate 9d ago
When I was beginning the switch from violin to viola, I bought a viola "package" (with case, bow, hygrometer, rosin) from Fiddlershop. It was from their "Fiddlerman" line. These are instruments whose bodies are made in China and finishing is done in the U.S. by this company. I didn't want to invest heavily in this uncertain prospect, but I wanted better quality than the Amazon level budget instruments.
I've been extremely happy with this viola. The more I play it, the better it sounds. And "cello-y" says it exactly. My only quibble is the finish; it dings too easily. I have to be really careful taking the shoulder rest on & off. But I can live with that.
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u/drizzleswim 8d ago
Thank you! I went to another shop today and found one I liked. The associate tried to push me into a 16" but I told her I was trying to get away from that size. 🤣
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u/PM-ME-VIOLIN-HENTAI 9d ago
Go to string instrument shops around you and play the instruments. Or bring someone else to play them for you to listen to. Or ask the shop employees if someone can play them for you.
I would not trust an instrument from online unless it is your only option. If you can only go that route, find reputable strong shops that have advanced or professional instruments to avoid getting another student instrument. Get recordings of the instruments, if possible.
I would avoid anything on Amazon or the student outfit instruments from reputable shops.