When it comes to choosing the best viola, there are many factors to consider, including the quality of craftsmanship, sound production, material selection, and brand reputation. The viola, often overshadowed by the violin in popularity, requires a unique approach to selection due to its larger size, deeper tones, and distinct demands on both player and instrument. As a result, selecting the right brand is paramount for musicians aiming to elevate their performance.
In this article, we will explore the best viola brands available today, diving into the elements that make them stand out. Whether you’re an aspiring student or a seasoned professional, understanding the characteristics of top-tier viola brands will help you make an informed decision. Let’s examine the brands that have gained recognition for their exceptional craftsmanship, sound, and playability.
Understanding the Viola: What Makes It Unique?
Before delving into the brands, it is crucial to understand what makes the viola different from other string instruments. The viola is a member of the violin family but is larger and tuned a fifth lower. Its rich, warm sound is a defining characteristic, making it indispensable in orchestras and chamber music.
Unlike the violin, which has a high-pitched tone, the viola’s deeper, more resonant sound makes it suitable for various musical genres, from classical to contemporary. However, this size and sound also present challenges. The viola requires a precise balance of tone quality, projection, and ease of playability, all of which are influenced by the craftsmanship of the brand.
Key Factors in Choosing the Best Viola Brand
When selecting a viola, whether for a beginner or an advanced player, there are several key factors to keep in mind:
Craftsmanship: High-quality viola makers pay meticulous attention to detail in their construction. This includes hand-carved designs and using premium wood such as spruce for the top and maple for the back and sides.
Sound Quality: The viola’s sound depends heavily on its construction, material, and setup. A high-end viola will produce a rich, full sound with a clear, resonant tone. The tonal qualities should be consistent across all registers.
Playability: A viola should feel comfortable to play, with smooth fingerboard action and an ergonomic design that facilitates ease of movement.
Brand Reputation: Established brands have earned their reputation over decades or centuries of expert craftsmanship and reliable performance. Players often trust these brands due to their consistent quality and attention to detail.
Price Range: While top-tier violas can be expensive, many brands offer excellent mid-range and student instruments that don’t compromise on sound or craftsmanship.
The Best Viola Brands for Professional and Advanced Players
For professional musicians and advanced students, the best viola brands offer exceptional sound and playability, with a focus on top-tier craftsmanship and materials. Here are some of the most renowned viola brands in the world:
a) Antonius Stradivari
When it comes to string instruments, few names are as iconic as Stradivari. Stradivari violas, though rare, are considered some of the best in the world due to their exceptional craftsmanship, tonal richness, and projection. The instruments crafted by Antonio Stradivari during the late 17th and early 18th centuries are highly sought after by professional violists. The instruments made by this legendary maker offer a deep, warm tone with incredible clarity.
However, due to their rarity and immense value, Stradivari violas are out of reach for most musicians. Still, many modern violin makers attempt to replicate Stradivari’s techniques and designs, which can often yield instruments with similar tonal qualities.
b) Vuillaume (Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume)
Vuillaume violas are highly esteemed, especially among professional musicians. Jean-Baptiste Vuillaume, a 19th-century French luthier, was renowned for his skill in crafting violas, violins, and cellos. His instruments are known for their rich, rounded sound and excellent tonal balance. Though Vuillaume violas can be expensive, they are considered one of the best choices for advanced players looking for a classic, mature tone.
Vuillaume’s craftsmanship was known for producing instruments that blend a great sound with reliable playability, making his violas highly sought after by collectors and serious performers.
c) Francesco Ruggieri
Francesco Ruggieri, an Italian luthier from the late 17th century, is renowned for his expertly crafted violas. Instruments made by Ruggieri are known for their powerful sound, full-bodied tone, and dynamic range. While his violas are rare, they remain highly prized among collectors and professional musicians due to their exquisite craftsmanship and tonal excellence.
Ruggieri’s violas are typically characterized by a broad, rich sound and exceptional resonance, making them ideal for chamber music and orchestral performances.
d) Giuseppe Guarneri (del Gesù)
Another legendary name in the world of string instruments is Giuseppe Guarneri. His violas, while fewer in number than his violins, are among the finest ever made. Guarneri violas are known for their intense, rich tones and powerful projection. They often have a darker, more robust sound compared to Stradivari violas, making them highly prized by professional violists seeking a unique tonal quality.
While original Guarneri violas are extremely rare and costly, many contemporary luthiers try to recreate the distinctive qualities of his work, producing violas with similar tonal properties.
Excellent Viola Brands for Intermediate Players
For intermediate players, it’s essential to find a viola that balances quality and affordability without compromising on sound and playability. Several manufacturers offer violas that are perfect for musicians looking to upgrade their instruments.
a) Eastman Strings
Eastman Strings is one of the most respected manufacturers in the world of string instruments. They produce a wide range of violas, from beginner models to advanced professional instruments. Eastman violas are crafted with high-quality materials, ensuring that they produce a rich, warm sound suitable for intermediate players. Their instruments offer solid craftsmanship and durability, making them a popular choice for advancing violists.
Eastman’s approach to making violas focuses on handcrafting and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the tone remains clear and the instrument’s playability is optimal.
b) Scott Cao
Scott Cao is a well-known name in the world of string instruments. Their violas are handcrafted with the same attention to detail as their violins, offering excellent tonal quality and reliability for intermediate players. The company is renowned for producing violas that are rich in tonal depth, offering a well-balanced sound and excellent projection.
Scott Cao violas are perfect for musicians who want an instrument that can take them through the intermediate level and into advanced studies, making them a great choice for students or performers who need both value and quality.
c) Knilling
Knilling violas are highly respected in the intermediate and student market. Known for their consistent quality and sound, Knilling violas are crafted with great attention to detail and are designed for musicians who are progressing in their craft. Their instruments are durable and produce a clear, warm sound that suits a variety of musical styles.
Knilling violas offer great value for money, making them an excellent choice for players looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Best Viola Brands for Beginners
For beginners, the focus should be on affordability, ease of play, and a reliable instrument that offers good tone and sound. While beginners may not require the high-end qualities of professional violas, it is still essential to select an instrument that provides a solid foundation for learning.
a) Yamaha
Yamaha is a globally recognized brand known for producing high-quality, affordable violas suitable for beginners. Their instruments are well-crafted, reliable, and produce a decent sound, making them a great starting point for new violists. Yamaha’s violas are designed for ease of use, ensuring that beginners can develop proper technique and enjoy their musical journey without struggling with an inferior instrument.
Yamaha violas are durable and come with a variety of models to suit different player needs and budgets.
b) Cecilio
Cecilio violas are an excellent choice for beginner players on a budget. Their instruments are designed to provide an easy-playing experience, with smooth fingerboard action and a warm, pleasant tone. Cecilio violas are typically well-regarded for their affordability, making them a popular option for students just starting their viola journey.
While Cecilio violas may not have the same refinement as professional instruments, they provide a solid foundation for learning and are easy to maintain.
c) Mendini
Mendini offers a range of affordable violas suitable for beginners. Their violas come fully set up and are known for being comfortable to play, with decent tone quality considering their price point. Mendini instruments are a great option for students who are just beginning to explore the viola and want an entry-level instrument that can take them through the early stages of their training.
How to Choose the Right Viola for You
While brand plays a significant role in your decision, it is equally important to consider your personal preferences and needs as a violist. Here are a few tips for selecting the right viola:
Try before you buy: Whenever possible, play the viola before making a purchase. Testing the instrument will give you a sense of its tone, comfort, and how it feels under your fingers.
Consult an expert: If you’re unsure, consult with a teacher, professional violist, or a luthier. They can provide valuable insights into the best brand and model for your level.
Consider the setup: A great viola brand is only effective if the instrument is properly set up. Ensure the viola is properly adjusted for optimal sound and playability.
Balance quality and price: For beginners, affordability is key, while advanced players should prioritize sound quality and craftsmanship. Finding the balance between the two is crucial.
Conclusion
Choosing the best brand for viola involves a careful consideration of sound quality, craftsmanship, playability, and personal preference. While top-tier brands like Stradivari, Vuillaume, and Guarneri are reserved for professional musicians, there are many excellent brands for intermediate and beginner players as well. Eastman, Scott Cao, Yamaha, and Cecilio all offer great options depending on the player’s needs and budget.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey as a violist or are a seasoned performer, the right viola brand will make a significant difference in your musical development. By understanding the qualities that define the best viola brands, you can confidently choose the instrument that will support and enhance your playing for years to come.
