Viola Tunings

The standard viola tuning, with strings tuned in perfect fifths. The viola is pitched a perfect fifth below the violin, giving it a rich, warm alto voice in the string family.

All strings lowered by a half step. Sometimes used for baroque performance at A=415 Hz or to reduce string tension for a more relaxed, darker tone.

An open tuning producing a C5 power chord. Used in experimental and contemporary viola music, the paired octaves create strong resonance for drone-based compositions.

An open tuning producing a G power chord. Used in some folk and experimental music traditions, providing easy access to open string drones in the key of G.

All strings tuned down a whole step from standard. Creates a deeper, more resonant sound with reduced tension, sometimes used in contemporary compositions.

Viola tuned to violin intervals, a perfect fifth higher than standard. Used by violists who want to play fiddle tunes at violin pitch or explore the higher register.