What is the difference between the violin and the viola?

The violin and the viola are very similar instruments. The violin is smaller than the viola and tends to play higher. The viola, with its slightly larger size, can play a little bit lower than the violin. If you were looking at the instruments from a distance, it may be difficult to tell them apart.

Side by side it is easier to tell. The violin is on the left.  Would you like to listen?

The String Instrument Demo Video was made after a series of demonstrations for elementary school students. The music was chosen to showcase what could be possible with about a year of study on each of the instruments.