Viola

  The viola is sometimes considered the poor relation of the string family, which is hardly surprising: the double bass occupies the role of the orchestra’s grandfather, the violin leads the ensemble, and the cello is used in many different ways thanks to its beautiful, warm tone. The viola, however, often buried within the string section, rarely has the opportunity to shine as a solo instrument. The viola is larger than the violin, although it does not have a fixed size, as it is made in several different dimensions. In general, it closely resembles the violin in shape, but it differs in range, tone color, and musical role. The viola bow is also slightly longer and heavier than the violin bow. The lowest string of the viola is C (C3), one octave below middle C, and the instrument is tuned in perfect fifths: C, G, D, and A. The open strings of the viola have the same names as those of the cello, but they sound one octave higher. The name “viola” was originally used for the viol...
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Liszt - Hungarian Rhapsody No. 5

Liszt's love of Hungarian gypsy music initially inspired him to publish a series of works entitled Hungarian National Melodies. Much of the material was transformed into Hungarian Thapsodies and produced over a long period of time, starting in 1846. These works were first written for piano. Some, like this one, the composer later orchestrated them.

The music begins darkly, with the deep strings playing in unison. Then the violins evolve the original melody, sad and nostalgid, followed by a solo of the cello.

For a very short time, the key changes from minor to major, but emotional relaxation is temporary.



The atmosphere of the work is generally melancholic and sceptical. The tragic mood, created by the strings that often play on the substrate of the dark chords of the wood and brass instruments, prevails until the last sad note.




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