AboutDavid Expertise I mainly aim to answer questions about playing techniques--intonation,
vibrato, bowing etc. I am somewhat familiar with Baroque and Classical music, though not as much with Romantic. I am unable to answer questions about advanced music theory, violin crafters/brands or the monetary value of a violin.
Experience I have played the violin about nine discontinuous years. Most of my work has been orchestral, with some soloing throughout. I was principal 2nd violinist of the Disney Honors Orchestra in 1998, a six-time All-State Orchestra violinist, a two-time assistant concertmaster and two-time concertmaster of my All-County Orchestra. I also have perfect pitch, which I believe can be learned (though I do not claim to know how to teach it).
Since starting medical school in 2004, I have had fewer chances to play, but I hope to someday resume on a regular basis.
Question hi, i play violin in my school orchesta, but i was wondering about the viola... from what I understand they play in a totally different clef than everyone else...is it called the viola clef?
What are the positions of the notes on the staff in viola clef? And do you know of any resources to find stuff about the viola clef on the internet?
Thanks a ton!!!!
Answer Hi Matt,
Interesting question. Yes, the violists play in a clef probably unfamiliar to violinists. I have heard it called the viola clef, but also the alto clef or C clef. The very middle line is a C, so the next line up is an E and next one a G, etc. It is pretty different from the familiar treble clef, so violinists often find they need some time to adjust to it when trying to read it on viola (violinists never encounter the C clef in their music as far as I know, so don't worry).
As for finding information about the viola clef on the Internet, I do not know of any specific sites or clearinghouses, but you could use a search engine like google.com (my personal favorite) and you would get lots of hits.
Hope this is of some assistance; please feel free to ask any more questions you may have. Good luck in all your musical endeavors!
Sincerely, David
