We reflect on some of our favourite pieces for this most beautiful \u2013 though historically unfairly dismissed \u2013 stringed instrument <\/p>
Ah, the viola. An unjustly treated instrument, if ever there was one. It is thought that jokes about viola players actually originate from the 18th century, when viola parts were often rather pedestrian, and as a result talented musicians were more enticed by other instruments, leaving weaker players to take on the viola.<\/p>\n
Sadly, those jokes still kick around today, though the instrument\u2019s reputation has improved considerably over the last 50 years, thanks in no small part to a wealth of formidable players stepping into the spotlight.<\/p>\n
There are many wonderful viola works worth listening to. Read on to immerse yourself in this beautiful instrument\u2019s lyrical possibilities\u2026<\/p>\n
Walton<\/a><\/strong>\u2019s terrific Concerto was written in 1929 for English violist Lionel Tertis \u2013 as many viola works were at the time \u2013 though he promptly pooh-poohed it, handing premiere duties over to composer and fellow viola player Paul Hindemith<\/a><\/strong> (see below). It\u2019s hard to understand Tertis\u2019s complaint that it was too \u2018modernist\u2019, as the work is overtly lyrical and mischievous, with moments of breathtaking beauty.<\/p>\n