Few violists are born. Most have the instrument thrust upon them. In fact, the viola -- the overlooked stepchild of the orchestra’s string section -- is rarely studied as a first instrument at all.

The viola is in nature an undersized pansy. In art it is an oversized violin with a tubby, whiskey-contralto voice. Except for low-moaning the inner voices of symphonies and string quartets, it is not ...

If you’re looking for a string instrument that has a brighter sound than a cello but is more resonant than a violin, look no further than the viola. This overlooked instrument produces rich, clear ...

The viola as a solo instrument really came into its own in the 20th century. Duncan Druce offers a specialist's guide to the ten best recordings The viola possesses a history as long and distinguished ...