Viola Strings

Different strings can provide warm or bright tones and varying levels of tension, projection, and response. The best strings for you depend on the instrument you play, your skill level, and your sound and feel of choice. Always make sure the strings you pick are designed for your viola’s scale length. If you need more specific guidance, check out the D’Addario Orchestral String Finder.

There’s a lot of variation when it comes to the sizes and scale of a viola. That means that not all strings fit all instruments. To identify your viola size, measure from the bottom of the viola body (the lower bout) to the top of the upper bout, excluding the neck and scroll. This length allows you to determine the proper scale length for your strings.

Yes. Violas are larger and longer than violins, and are pitched lower. Both instruments have A, D, and G strings, and a lower-tuned C. It’s important to buy strings that are constructed specifically to produce the right tension and appropriate response on a viola.

Professional players use a variety of strings depending on their instrument and tonal preferences. D’Addario offers a few options for pros, like Kaplan and Helicore viola strings. Both are advanced, but feature different tonal characteristics, construction, response, and feel.

Prelude strings are a great choice for beginners. Their solid steel core gives them the exceptional durability, tuning stability, and a consistent response that up-and-coming players need.