Viola's are on short supply in the local youth orchestra.
we have one.. but she's grade 1.. and can't really play very well.
so i though i would have a go (:
So.. some questions:
A) How much is a half decent cheap viola? (:
B) How much roughly, is a viola teacher? :S

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Yes, that sounds quite normal.

You speak as though you can already play, or think that Grade 1 is easy on a bowed string instrument? Bear in mind that unless you take to the viola and clef (alto clef) like a duck to water, you too will probably take a while to achieve a standard of about Grade 1.

Please also take into consideration that string instruments do require considerable dedication to achieve even moderate success, in many cases more time than that required for the same level of attainment on woodwind. From your signature, you've already got several instruments on the go at novice to intermediate level. You need to ask yourself if you really have sufficient practice time left to learn a bowed string instrument.



A) Liz at Elida Trading (and forum member) will be your best bet for answering this.

B) Depends where you live and what qualifications or experience (teaching and playing) the violist has. Unlikely to find anyone with fees below £20 - £25, unless they've only got Grade 5 themselves!

Its unlikely you can buy a viola teacher.

;O
i'm sure i'll find one on ebay (;


and i will find the time
I'll just skip hwk.
jokiiiing (:
i'm likey to do viola next year though.
when i've done my GCSE's.
so i'll have time on my hands.. (;

I'd second Amanda on most of what she said. It takes a goodly while to get to grade 1 on strings for most people. Of course, it depends on how much you're able to put into it and whether or not you find certain things easy, such as hearing the right intonation. I've known people at grade 5 level technically whose intonation was poor to say the least! If you're already learning violin, you shouldn't find it too challenging and I'm sure the lone violist will be glad of a friend!

My viola was £200 all in, is a Stentor Conservatoire and makes a nice sound. My teacher, (who has LRAM in viola teaching and plenty of playing ability), often says she's surprised at just how good it is. It could be that I got a fluke good one, but we're inclined to think that it's not that bad and that the makers know which strings to put on it for the best when you get it etc.

For teachers, try musicteachers.co.uk I found mine on there and she only charges £10 for 30 minutes but, as you can see from the above, is eminently qualified to teach.

Let us know how you get on!

it's unlikely that you'd have more time after doing GCSE's. AS's are a lot more work, do not underestimate the jump between GCSE ans As.
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