Oh no, am I a violist?

September 14, 2006 at 2:02 AM

Actually, I am quite enjoying the challange of keeping both violin and viola in shape. The viola offers new struggles and so many things to learn in terms of how the instrument performs, changes, responds to string choices....etc. etc. I have a fairly sturdy viola, though it can be a bit thick at times :) Like me...He he. No, that comes as a relief sometimes since my violin feels quite fragile. A very fine instrument that I wouldn't trade in or regret anything of, it is just that I worry with it being so old and having such a high belly (almost touching the fingerboard with a wound that leaves the wood uneven, but not cracked through, glued many times). Anyhow.

I put on new strings today (hence the topic) and the viola became a mystery. It is not the same as the violin at all. I chose three Pirastro Aricore, and one Pirastro Tonica. Turns out I should have used the Tonica on the C string, not the G. I have been addicted to Obligatos for going on Three or four years now, and I felt an urge to stray from the Obligato Path.

Anyhow. I had a recital in June, which was a tribute recital to my father's life and music. I will put a known piece on here first, and one of his compositions another day. He wrote a beautiful Pastorale for violin and Piano, which I played on viola with piano. I also played Faure's violin/piano sonata, Bruch's Romanze, Handel-Halovorsen's duo for violin and viola, a counterpoint set also written by my father arranged by yours truly for violin and cello, and the rest of the Bach Suite no.2. Oh, and Hindemith's Duett for viola and cello. One of the only and best pieces for viola and Cello. Challenging! Hm. I'll get to that one soon, too. My best friends played with me on the recital.

I haven't purused the site in awhile, I think I will delve into all that I have missed. Every once in awhile it feels good to get immersed in violin issues. And then take a break :).

-Jennifer Warren

From Donna Clegg
Posted on September 15, 2006 at 1:12 PM

Yes, you are a violist, as well as a violinist. Beautiful piece.

From jennifer steinfeldt warren
Posted on September 17, 2006 at 6:34 PM

Merci!
JW

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