The
viola is an important member of the orchestra, but is not often heard by
itself. Because it is bigger than the violin, with longer strings, it makes
a rich, warm sound that is lower in pitch. It's a little heavier, and its
shape is slightly different, too. It is stillplayed on the violist's left
arm, just like the violin. Information provided by: http://www.latms.berkeley.k12.ca.us