Can a Violin String E Be Tuned to A on a Viola? Tips and Considerations for Tuning

It's a common question, and one that's often met with a mixture of curiosity and concern: can the E string of a violin be tuned to A, matching the tuning of a viola? While it's possible, there are a number of important factors to consider.

Standard Tunings: Violin vs. Viola

Before diving into the specifics of tuning, let's review the standard tunings for both instruments. The standard tuning for a violin, from lowest to highest string, is G, D, A, and E. On the other hand, the standard tuning for a viola is C, G, D, and A. This means that the A string on a viola is actually where the E string is located on a violin. However, the strings are not exactly alike—they have different thicknesses and materials, which can affect tuning and playability.

Tuning E to A

When you tune the E string of a violin down to A, it will indeed match the pitch of the A string on a viola. While this is possible, it is not a standard practice for a few reasons:

String Gauge and Sound Quality

One important consideration is the string gauge. Typically, the E string of a violin is thinner than the A string of a viola. If you tune a violin E string down to A, it might result in the string sounding less resonant or even becoming floppy. This can affect the overall sound quality and playability of the instrument.

Alternative Solutions

For those interested in trying this out, a safer and more reliable option is to use viola strings on a violin. This can help maintain the proper tension and ensure that the instrument sounds its best. If you're a beginner or just experimenting, it's a good idea to play it safe and use strings designed for your specific instrument.

Experiences and Recommendations

Some individuals, particularly those with extensive musical training, might experiment with tuning the E string of a violin to A. However, it's worth noting that this is not a common practice and should be done with caution. Here are some insights from someone with both music theory expertise and real-world playing experience:

Historical Context

In the past, some music teachers considered strapping a full-size violin with viola strings to help beginners learn the viola. This, however, was rarely implemented due to the differences in string gauge and tension. In fact, it took another 17 years for the person being discussed to actually play the viola. When he was a child, he was playing a 3/4 size violin, making the transition even more complex.

It's important to understand that full-size violins and violas have different dimensions. While full-size violins generally have a body length of around 14 inches (excluding the fingerboard and scroll), violas can have body lengths ranging from about 15.5 inches to over 17 inches. Some rare violas, like the one mentioned, can even have a body length of 19 inches, playing to the extremes of the size range. These differences are crucial when considering string tuning.

Instrument Transition

For those who already have proficiency on a violin but decide to take up the viola, it's often a matter of adding a new instrument rather than switching. Learning to play the viola, even after becoming skilled on the violin, involves adapting to a larger and more physically demanding instrument. However, the skills learned on a violin can often serve as a solid foundation for learning the viola.

As mentioned, while some professionals transition to the viola, many start with the violin, especially if they are quite advanced. This is often the case for those entering symphony orchestras where a viola player may be needed for a specific piece or section. Being versatile and capable of stepping in to different roles within the orchestra is a valuable skill for a musician.

Conclusion

While tuning a violin E string to A can be done, it is not a commonly practiced method and should be done only with caution and after careful consideration. It's generally recommended to use the correct strings for each instrument to ensure the best sound and performance. If you're a beginner, it's best to stick with standard tuning to get a feel for each instrument. As you gain more experience, you can explore alternative tunings and string changes, but always prioritize the comfort and sound of your instrument.