Well, firstly the viola can go lower, making it better suited to playing music in lower registers. This is why viola players read music in the alto clef (rather than the treble clef that violin players use), and sit right in the centre of an orchestra in between the cellos and violins. Another difference is the way each instrument ‘speaks’.

The ease of playing the violin or viola depends on the player’s preferences, experience, and physical attributes. Violinists often find the transition to viola manageable, as many skills are transferable. However, the larger size and differences in technique make the viola a unique instrument to master.

Yes, a violinist can learn to play the viola. The violin and viola share similarities in technique and notation, making it relatively feasible for a violinist to transition to the viola.

As mentioned, the violin is undoubtedly the more difficult instrument to learn, but the viola presents a few unique challenges as well. As the larger and heavier instrument, and the one with thicker strings, it takes more strength to play and hold.