The viola, often overlooked in the shadow of its larger sibling, the violin, is a vital and distinctive member of the string family. With its warm, rich tone and its unique role in orchestras and chamber ensembles, the viola demands both skill and attention from its players. But beyond mastering its intricate fingerings and bow strokes, maintaining the instrument is crucial for preserving its sound quality and ensuring its longevity.
In this guide, we will explore the fundamental aspects of viola maintenance, from understanding the instrument’s construction and materials to performing regular checks and adjustments. We’ll delve into the world of strings, bows, and rosin, and discuss how to clean and store your viola properly. By the end of this article, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to keep your viola in optimal condition.
Understanding the Viola’s Construction
The viola is a complex instrument, with each part playing a crucial role in producing its signature sound.
Body and Shape
The viola’s body is typically made of maple and spruce, with the top (or soundboard) being spruce and the back, sides, and neck being maple. The shape of the viola is similar to that of the violin but is larger, with a longer string length and wider fingerboard. This larger size contributes to its deeper, richer tone.
Strings
The strings of a viola are made of various materials, each affecting the instrument’s sound. The most common types are nylon-cored strings, which are warm and responsive, and steel-cored strings, which offer a brighter, more projecting sound. Synthetic core strings, made from materials like perlon or fluorocarbon, offer a balance between warmth and brightness.
Bridge
The bridge supports the strings and transfers their vibrations to the body of the viola, amplifying the sound. It is made of maple or ebony and is carved to precise specifications to ensure optimal string placement and sound quality.
Fingerboard
The fingerboard, made of ebony or rosewood, is the surface on which the player presses the strings to produce different notes. It is coated with a thin layer of varnish to protect it from wear and tear.
Pegs and Tuning
The pegs, made of wood or ivory (though modern violas often use synthetic materials), hold the strings in place and allow for tuning. They must be turned carefully to avoid breaking the strings or damaging the pegbox.
Tailpiece and Endpin
The tailpiece holds the strings at the lower end of the instrument and often has fine tuners to make minor adjustments to the pitch. The endpin, a metal rod inserted into the tailblock, provides stability when playing standing up.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Maintaining your viola involves regular checks and adjustments to ensure that it remains in optimal playing condition.
String Tension and Intonation
Strings lose tension over time, causing the instrument to go out of tune. Regularly checking and adjusting the strings’ tension is crucial for maintaining good intonation. Use a tuner or pitch pipe to check the pitch of each string regularly and adjust the pegs or fine tuners accordingly.
Bridge Placement
The bridge’s position affects the viola’s intonation and sound quality. Occasionally check that the bridge is straight and perpendicular to the strings. If it leans to one side, it may need to be realigned by a qualified technician.
Soundpost
The soundpost, a small wooden post inside the viola’s body, supports the top and transfers vibrations to the back of the instrument. Occasionally check for any signs of movement or looseness. If the soundpost shifts, it can drastically affect the instrument’s sound. A qualified technician should adjust or replace it.
Fingerboard and Pegs
Inspect the fingerboard for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure that the pegs turn smoothly and securely hold the strings. If the pegs become loose or difficult to turn, they may need to be lubricated or replaced.
Bow Maintenance
The bow is an equally important part of the viola setup. Regularly check the bow hair for wear and tear, and re-hair the bow when necessary. Clean the bow stick with a soft cloth to remove rosin build-up and inspect it for cracks or splits.
Cleaning and Care
Keeping your viola clean is essential for maintaining its appearance and functionality.
Cleaning the Strings
Strings can accumulate rosin, dust, and grime over time, which can affect their sound and playability. Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel to gently wipe down the strings after each playing session. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or chemicals, which can damage the strings.
Cleaning the Body
The viola’s body should be cleaned periodically to remove fingerprints, rosin dust, and other contaminants. Use a soft cloth dampened with water or a mild cleaner to wipe down the surface, avoiding any areas with varnish or open seams. Dry the instrument thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent water damage.
Polishing the Wood
The wood of the viola can become dull or scratched over time. Use a suitable wood polish or violin wax to restore its shine and protect the finish. Apply the polish with a soft cloth, working in the direction of the grain, and buff to a shine.
Storage
When not in use, store your viola in a cool, dry place in a padded case to protect it from damage. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity, which can warp the wood and damage the strings. Keep the bow separate from the instrument to prevent it from pressing against the strings and damaging them.
Adjustments and Repairs
As your viola ages, it may require adjustments or repairs to maintain its optimal playing condition.
Adjustments
Occasionally, the viola may need adjustments to its bridge, soundpost, or pegs to maintain good intonation and playability. These adjustments should be performed by a qualified technician with experience working on string instruments.
Repairs
Damage to the viola, such as cracks in the wood, broken strings, or worn-out parts, may require professional repairs. A qualified violin or viola maker can assess the damage and perform necessary repairs to restore the instrument to its original condition.
Upgrading Your Viola
As your skills improve, you may find that your current viola no longer meets your needs. Upgrading to a higher-quality instrument can enhance your playing experience and sound quality.
Choosing a New Viola
When choosing a new viola, consider factors such as size, sound quality, materials, and budget. Try out several instruments to find one that fits your playing style and preferences. Work with a qualified instrument dealer or technician to ensure that you select the right instrument for your needs.
Transitioning to a New Viola
Switching to a new viola can be a challenging process, as each instrument has its unique characteristics and nuances. Allow yourself time to adapt to the new instrument, practicing regularly to become familiar with its sound and playability.
Conclusion
Maintaining your viola is a crucial part of being a musician. By regularly checking and adjusting your instrument, cleaning and caring for it properly, and seeking professional repairs and adjustments as needed, you can ensure that your viola remains in optimal playing condition. With proper maintenance, your viola will continue to produce its beautiful, rich sound, inspiring you to play and perform your best.
