Speed Paint Challenge #7
The String City / The Viola District
Viola: a musical instrument which is similar to the violin and cello. The viola sounds lower than a violin, but higher than a cello. It has four strings, called the C, G, D, and A strings. The highest string is the A. The viola is played with a bow in the right hand. Playing with the bow is called arco. Sometimes the strings may be plucked (pizzicato). Even though the viola and violin can play many of the same notes, they each have a special sound quality. Sometimes people describe the viola's sound as more "dark", "earthy", or "mellow" than the violin's sound.
Dark, stately, reedy, warm, distinctive, full, lively, singing, eloquent, introspective, sensuous, round, muffled, solemn, austere, muted, rough, wafting, veiled, sonorous, powerful, robust.
C string (C3–D4)
Has a fundamentally powerful, resonant, clear, pleasing, rich and dark timbre which is used among other things to convey a feeling of foreboding. It can also evoke very somber and gloomy moods. The same notes played on the cello sound more powerful and intense.
G string (G3–A4)
Sounds rather bland, cannot assert itself particularly. It is weaker and projects less well than the same notes on the violin and is suitable as a filling-in part and for figurations.
D string (D4–E5)
Sounds rather bland, cannot assert itself particularly. It is weaker and projects less well than the same notes on the violin and is suitable as a filling-in part and for figurations.
A string (A4–E6, A6)
Contrasts starkly with the other strings, has an individual character, penetrating, austere, nasal, rough, forceful and distinctive. It is noticeably different from the rest of the string orchestra and is used to express sentimental moods and pain (played forte).
Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra, Op. 34 - Violas / Benjamin Britten
Need more inspiration? Visit the original YPGTTO brief here.
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