Where did the viola come from?

The viola is a member of the violin family of string instruments, and its origins can be traced back to the early 16th century. It is believed that the viola evolved from the medieval vielle, a bowed string instrument that was popular in Europe during the Middle Ages. The vielle had a rounded body and four or five strings, and it was played with a bow. Over time, the vielle began to be modified, and by the 16th century, it had evolved into the viola da gamba, a larger instrument with six strings that was played held between the legs. The viola da gamba was popular for both solo and ensemble playing, and it was often used in chamber music and orchestral works.

In the 17th century, the viola da gamba began to be replaced by the viola da braccio, an instrument that was held on the shoulder like the modern viola. The viola da braccio had a similar shape and size to the viola da gamba, but it had a flatter back and a shorter neck. It also had four strings, tuned the same as the viola da gamba. The viola da braccio quickly became the preferred instrument for playing in orchestras, and it eventually replaced the viola da gamba altogether.

The modern viola is a direct descendant of the viola da braccio, and it has changed very little in design over the centuries. It is a beautiful instrument with a rich, mellow sound, and it is an essential member of the modern orchestra.