Why viola?

Though many of you have heard the story I'm sure, I feel compelled to fully explain why I chose the viola. I cannot confirm the validity of this story since I don't remember this particular day, but my Granddad loves to depict the scene in this way.

Scene: Marie, Dad and Granddad in a gymnasium full of 4th graders trying to pick out what instrument they will play next year in orchestra.

Marie: Granddad, I want to play the viola.

Granddad: Why's that, Marie?

Marie: Because I like the way it sounds.

Granddad: (a little impressed that his granddaughter even knows what the viola is) Oh really?! When have you heard a viola?

Marie: No, I mean, I like the way it sounds- veeohlaaaa

(*insert cheesy sound here*)

So yes, maybe it's true, and that is why I chose viola. But now, looking back on it, I realize what a wonderful decision it was. Though these are not necessarily viola-specific, here are a few more reasons why I love playing viola....

(in no particular order)

1. No plane ticket.

Ever sat next to a tuba or cello on a plane? Well let me tell you, I'm glad I don't have to pay double airfare every time I have to go somewhere.

2. No E string.

Ever heard an E string squeak? Not the nicest sound ever.

3. Less competition.

It's true, I admit.

4. More eighth notes, fewer sixteenths.

Some people might find repeated eighth notes boring in orchestra parts. I relish in them as I watch the violinists' eyes bulge when they try to read all the notes on the page.

5. More gigs.

Chamber groups are always in need of a lovely violist!

6. Alto clef.

Yeah, we have our own clef. And it rocks.

7. Viola jokes.

Why was the violist wandering outside? Because he couldn't find the key and didn't know where to come in!

8. A permanent excuse.

I'm a violist. What's your excuse?

9. Great way to start a conversation.

"What instrument is that?"- "It's a viola"- "What's a viola?"

10. A great sound.

Besides the way the word sounds, the viola played actually can sound quite nice :)

Love,

Violamad