Classical Viola

Overview

Tuning Steps

Sweetened Tunings

Products

More Info

Discuss

Tuning Classical Viola, Viola D’Amore & Lira Da Braccio
Peterson tuners are highly accurate, precise and simple to use, you can tune your viola to perfection if you’ve ever used a tuner of any type before. Many of the world’s top musicians are avid Peterson users, so you’ll be in good company!

Like violinists, Violists have a love/hate relationship with electronic tuners for good reason, up to now most electronic tuners made are not suitable for tuning a viola, the interval spacing between the strings of a viola is slightly wider than electronic tuners indicate, this is astonishingly true even for tuners which are marketed specifically to violists!

The viola, which many believe to have predated the violin, is tuned to the notes C G D A with the lowest open string pitch being C and the highest pitch being A. The intervals C to G, G to D and D to A on a correctly tuned viola are all Perfect Fifth intervals. The interval C to G, G to D and D to A on an electronic tuner are Equally Tempered Fifths, so what does that mean?

The notes that make a perfect fifth interval are in total consonance with one another, there is no oscillation or beating heard when played together. The notes that make up an equally tempered fifth are not in consonance with one another and a slight oscillation or beating will be heard when played together. Equally Tempered fifths are 1.9 cents narrower than perfect fifths and the cumulative error caused by tuning using a tuner without a Viola Sweetener can be as much as eight cents in the case of a five string viola, a totally unacceptable result.

The result is that violists don’t like tuners, they tune by ear. Tuning by ear is not a problem when time and ambient noise allows. It is however a problem when working professionally in an orchestra pit, studio or live situation where time is tight, standards exacting and conditions less than optimal.

If you are someone who plays professionally, then tuning will be a consideration and a tuner that works professionally is what you need. Peterson tuners feature the correct interval tuning target displays for viola, just dial in the VLA Sweetener and let the tuner do the work for you!

Begin with the first string A, it’s located closest to the bow when holding the viola in the normal playing position.

  1. Use the bow to play notes when tuning, simply plucking the open strings does not take the weight of the bow into acount. Draw the bow across the 1st string. Observe the tuner display, check that the note “A” is displayed. Adjust the fine tuner to stop the strobe pattern image from moving contuously in any one direction, continue to adjust until the strobe pattern is motionless. If the note displayed is other than A, adjust the tuning peg until A is diplayed, then use the fine tuners to tune the string until the strobe pattern is motionless.
  2. Repeat the above for the D, G & C strings until all are tuned.
  3. Make a final check to counter changes in the tension of one string affecting the others, starting at the fourth string and ending with the first.
Checking Intonation
    Correct bridge placement is paramount, not only for tuning, but for the viola’s tone, even its structural integrity. The viola bridge feet should be placed on the median between the notches on the inner edge of the f-holes while standing perpendicular to the top, flat side facing the fine tuners, belly side facing the fingerboard.
= Standard Tuning
G4
= G in the 4th octave

Classical Viola

I Play This

Viola D’Amore

I Play This

Lira Da Braccio

I Play This

C3 G3 D4 A4

Standard Orchestral

A2 D3 A3 D4 F#4 A4 D5

D Major

D3 G3 D4 A4 E5

A#2 G3 D4 A4

Tertis/Elgar

A2 D3 A3 D4 F4 A4 D5

D Minor

C3 C4 G3 G4 D4 A4 E5

C#3 G#3 D#4 A#4

Mozart

G2 C3 G3 C4 E4 G4 C5

C Tuning

D3 G3 D4 A4

Classical Viola

I Play This

C3 G3 D4 A4

Standard Orchestral

A#2 G3 D4 A4

Tertis/Elgar

C#3 G#3 D#4 A#4

Mozart

D3 G3 D4 A4

Viola D’Amore

I Play This

A2 D3 A3 D4 F#4 A4 D5

D Major

A2 D3 A3 D4 F4 A4 D5

D Minor

G2 C3 G3 C4 E4 G4 C5

C Tuning

Lira Da Braccio

I Play This

D3 G3 D4 A4 E5

C3 C4 G3 G4 D4 A4 E5

Unlike other tuners which offer no alternative to generic Equal Temperament, Peterson Tuners contain many choices of “Sweetness“, in other words, several degrees of harmony or consonance in a tuning preset. The Sweetener feature is exclusive to Peterson Tuners and there is one for almost any musical instrument.
In the case of the Viola Sweetener (the preset is called VLA), these additional “tweaks” allow the instrument to sound as only an expertly tuned instrument can. Some call it “voicing” or optimizing the quality of tone produced by the instrument. Using a Sweetener is simple – your Peterson tuner does the work for you.

VLA
Peterson Viola Sweetener
 The Peterson StroboClip HD™ (SC-HD) has the same tenth-of-a-cent accuracy as all Peterson Strobe Tuners. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboClip HDC

$79.99

The Peterson StroboClip HD™ (SC-HD) has the same tenth-of-a-cent accuracy as all Peterson Strobe Tuners. This versatile tuner comes complete with a bright high-definition screen, over 50 Sweetened™ tunings, alternate temperaments for a vast array of string and wind instruments, and soft rubber-lined jaws to protect your instrument's finish while offering a firm grip for maximum signal tracking.
MORE

0

0

 Featuring the largest tuning display Peterson Tuners has ever incorporated into one of their pedal tuners, the StroboStomp HD boasts a high-definition, LCD screen that incorporates a variable color LED backlight. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboStomp LE

$169.00

Featuring the largest tuning display Peterson Tuners has ever incorporated into one of their pedal tuners, the StroboStomp HD boasts a high-definition, LCD screen that incorporates a variable color LED backlight. The user-selectable colors can be used to personalize the tuner or to increase display viewing quality in different levels of ambient lighting depending on the usage environment. The vibrant screen colors can also be assigned to stock or user presets to significantly reduce menu navigation time and increase on-stage tuning confidence at the gig. For tone purists, the StroboStomp HD provides a 100% silent, true-bypass operation mode to keep precious tone safe, as well as, eliminate the often annoying “pop” experienced when engaging such a feature in other products. It uses a unique series of timed relays incorporated within its circuitry to shunt the signal, draining the cause of the popping sound prior to breaking the connection, and effectively shutting the tuner down for direct play through without affecting tone quality. The StroboStomp HD also includes a long-time, user-requested buffered output operation mode that can be user engaged. The buffered mode can be used in or out of monitor mode. It is designed to boost instrument drive to overcome potential tone loss in signal chains that incorporate multiple low-impedance guitar pedals or those that utilize long cable runs. The buffered output modes preserve sonic quality all through the instrument range and keep prized core tone intact. The StroboStomp HD features over 100 exclusive Sweetened Tunings™, as well as, numbered guided tuning presets for a large variety of instruments and playing styles. Sweetened Tunings are exclusive to Peterson tuning products and are designed to help correct inherent tuning issues exhibited by many instruments. The new "Guided Tunings" mode allows the StroboStomp HD to display numeric string values instead of traditional note names making for sure-fire intuitive and rapid re-tuning to any number of open and alternative tunings. The Guided Tuning mode was instituted for beginners who want to experiment with popular alternate tunings, as well as, experienced players who employ multiple tunings in rapid succession. Numerically expressed scales are also included.
MORE

0

0

 The StroboPLUS HDC encompasses decades of tuning authority and technology to deliver the ultimate strobe tuner/metronome combo!

The StroboPLUS HDC’s 0. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboPLUS HDC

$179.99

The StroboPLUS HDC encompasses decades of tuning authority and technology to deliver the ultimate strobe tuner/metronome combo! The StroboPLUS HDC’s 0.1 cent tuning accuracy will tune any instrument with the utmost precision. Featuring a high-definition, multi-color display with variable color LED backlight, the StroboPLUS HDC display can be seen easily across the stage, bench, studio or classroom. Over 200 exclusive Sweetened Tunings® and Guided Tunings on-board accommodate a variety of instruments, temperaments, and musical genres. The highly configurable metronome features precise 0.1 BPM adjustability in eighth notes, quarter notes, dotted quarter notes or half notes, a tempo range of 10-280 BPM, over 100 subdivisions, accent patterns, and polyrhythms. The StroboPLUS HDC can also be used to play thousands of bars of tempo maps, programmable from the Peterson Connect Web App. A single tempo map can play an entire score of meter changes, accent patterns, subdivisions, bar colors, silent bars and gradually curved tempo changes like accelerandos and ritardandos. The StroboPLUS HDC is the perfect tuning, ear training and rhythm tool all in one package!
MORE

0

0

 Featuring the largest tuning display Peterson Tuners has ever incorporated into one of their pedal tuners, the StroboStomp HD boasts a high-definition, LCD screen that incorporates a variable color LED backlight. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboStomp HD

$149.00

Featuring the largest tuning display Peterson Tuners has ever incorporated into one of their pedal tuners, the StroboStomp HD boasts a high-definition, LCD screen that incorporates a variable color LED backlight. The user-selectable colors can be used to personalize the tuner or to increase display viewing quality in different levels of ambient lighting depending on the usage environment. The vibrant screen colors can also be assigned to stock or user presets to significantly reduce menu navigation time and increase on-stage tuning confidence at the gig. For tone purists, the StroboStomp HD provides a 100% silent, true-bypass operation mode to keep precious tone safe, as well as, eliminate the often annoying “pop” experienced when engaging such a feature in other products. It uses a unique series of timed relays incorporated within its circuitry to shunt the signal, draining the cause of the popping sound prior to breaking the connection, and effectively shutting the tuner down for direct play through without affecting tone quality. The StroboStomp HD also includes a long-time, user-requested buffered output operation mode that can be user engaged. The buffered mode can be used in or out of monitor mode. It is designed to boost instrument drive to overcome potential tone loss in signal chains that incorporate multiple low-impedance guitar pedals or those that utilize long cable runs. The buffered output modes preserve sonic quality all through the instrument range and keep prized core tone intact. The StroboStomp HD features over 100 exclusive Sweetened Tunings™, as well as, numbered guided tuning presets for a large variety of instruments and playing styles. Sweetened Tunings are exclusive to Peterson tuning products and are designed to help correct inherent tuning issues exhibited by many instruments. The new "Guided Tunings" mode allows the StroboStomp HD to display numeric string values instead of traditional note names making for sure-fire intuitive and rapid re-tuning to any number of open and alternative tunings. The Guided Tuning mode was instituted for beginners who want to experiment with popular alternate tunings, as well as, experienced players who employ multiple tunings in rapid succession. Numerically expressed scales are also included.
MORE

0

0

 The Peterson StroboClip HD™ (SC-HD) has the same tenth-of-a-cent accuracy as all Peterson Strobe Tuners. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboClip HD

$59.99

The Peterson StroboClip HD™ (SC-HD) has the same tenth-of-a-cent accuracy as all Peterson Strobe Tuners. This versatile tuner comes complete with a bright high-definition screen, over 50 Sweetened™ tunings, alternate temperaments for a vast array of string and wind instruments, and soft rubber-lined jaws to protect your instrument's finish while offering a firm grip for maximum signal tracking.
MORE

0

0

 The Peterson StroboPlus HD (SP-1) is THE premier desktop digital tuner on the market!  Equally as comfortable on a tech’s workbench as it is in a player’s guitar case, this tuner, with all of its features, is no exception to Peterson’s reputation for being THE most accurate in the industry — don’t let its demure palm size fool you! Players of both acoustic and electric instruments can rest assured— a built-in electret condenser microphone and ¼” input jack provide excellent connectivity. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboPLUS HD

$149.99

The Peterson StroboPlus HD (SP-1) is THE premier desktop digital tuner on the market! Equally as comfortable on a tech’s workbench as it is in a player’s guitar case, this tuner, with all of its features, is no exception to Peterson’s reputation for being THE most accurate in the industry — don’t let its demure palm size fool you! Players of both acoustic and electric instruments can rest assured— a built-in electret condenser microphone and ¼” input jack provide excellent connectivity. Gone are the days of having to carry extra batteries and tripping over power cables during a performance! This tuner is rechargeable via computer bus or outlet power, and its large, circular screen is easily viewed in both the darkest and brightest environmental conditions. Features such as Auto Off, easy menu navigation, tripod mounting capability, over 90 of our Sweetened Tunings, tone generation ability via built in speaker, and a headphone output jack round out the package. Finally, future-proof updating and parameter editing is made possible by the tuner’s unobtrusive side-mounted USB jack. And for those feeling exceptionally adventurous, this tuner can be upgraded to also feature our super flexible Body Beat metronome option, along with both audible AND tactile mode operation. Hear the beat or feel it…the power is in your hands. This tuner is fit for the most discerning of players and technicians for sure!
MORE
 iStroboSoft™ offers the unmatched accuracy of a mechanical strobe tuner for the highest degree of precision available in a software tuning application. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

iStroboSoft™ (iOS)

$9.99

iStroboSoft™ offers the unmatched accuracy of a mechanical strobe tuner for the highest degree of precision available in a software tuning application. Plug in your electrics or use the built-in mic for acoustic instruments to quickly and easily tune with 1/10th cent accuracy.
MORE
 The Peterson StroboSoft2 Tuning Suite gives you the power to route your audio through your DAW on an insert point or to strap it across your buss and tune with unrivaled accuracy. | Peterson Strobe Tuners

StroboSoft 2.0

$49.99 - $99.99

The Peterson StroboSoft2 Tuning Suite gives you the power to route your audio through your DAW on an insert point or to strap it across your buss and tune with unrivaled accuracy. Getting your instrument into your computer is as simple as plugging in up to two sound cards at once (stereo input), and selecting a sampling rate up to 96kHz. If the output level of your instrument still isn’t high enough, we have you covered. You can boost signals up to 24dB and achieve an ideal tuning lock. Sharp and flat tuning indicators make “at a glance” tuning a breeze. Gone are the days of needing to use an external compressor to tap-tune backboards, braces, and tone bars. Our “Average” function does away with any measured outliers. The “Standard” downloadable version of this software offers basic chromatic tuning, Cent/Hertz/MIDI note number output, noise filtering, and selectable concert A reference. Our “Deluxe” version offers 38 Sweetened Tunings, themed skins to personalize the tuner to fit the best look for your style, the ability to import/export Sweeteners and temperament to share with friends, and oscilloscope/spectrum analyzer utilities!
MORE

0

0

Make sure to keep strings in good condition, wipe them down with a cloth after playing and replace them with new strings when they become old or worn. If you break a string while playing or tuning, it often means the strings are at the end of their useful life. Old strings will never hold a tuning. Replace all strings at the same time.

Keep an eye on fine tuners, ensure they are backed off enough to allow immediate adjustment at any time.

Check the tuning pegs to ensure a good friction is maintained between peg and pegbox to anchor the strings at pitch.

Peterson Tuners offer an unparalleled range of adjustability allowing for calibration to historic Early Music concert pitch right up to modern day standards and beyond.

Violas from the 16th, 17th and 18th century, particularly those made by the Brothers Amati, Jacob Stainer, Antonio Stradivarius and Guarneri Del Gesu are among the most iconic instruments ever made. Examples include the “Viola del Crocifisso” originally commissioned by the Medici family, built by the Amati brothers in 1595 and played by Luigi Alberto Bianchi, Guarneri’s “Earl of Harrington” built in 1697 and played by William Primrose, Stradivarius’ “Mendelssohn” built in 1731 and played by Paganini.

Harp
Dobro® & Resonator Guitar
Mandolin
Viola
6-String Electric Guitar
Bagpipes
Buzz Feiten
Pedal Steel Guitar
Electric Bass Guitar
Violin
6-String Acoustic Guitar
Cello
Banjo
Lap Steel Guitar
Upright Bass
Ukulele
Enjoy 10% off
Let's stay connected
Simply sign up for our email list and we'll send you a unique coupon code, plus other exclusive savings!*
Restrictions Apply.
Thanks for joining ouir mailing list!
Keep an eye on your inbox. Your exclusive offer will be arriving soon.
* Must enter email address to receive unique promo code. Upon confirmation of eligibility, subscribers will receive a one-time use promo code for 10% off their purchase at PetersonTuners.com, including mechanical tuners, Virtual Series™ strobe tuners, StroboSoft™ desktop software, BodyBeat™ series metronomes, and accessories. Discounts do not apply toward the purchase of iStroboSoft for Android or iOS or Node products. Offer subject to change at any time. Cannot be combined with another promotional offer. To take advantage of this one-time use offer enter your email address and the offer code will be delivered to that address. Please add petersontuners@petersontuners.com to your safe list to prevent your offer from going to spam. Your email address information is kept private. Privacy Policy.
Need Help?
Select a maximum of 4 products to compare.
StroboClip HDC
StroboStomp Mini
StroboStomp LE
StroboPLUS HDC
StroboStomp HD
StroboClip HD
Body Beat Pulse Solo
StroboPLUS HD
Body Beat Sync
StroboClip
iStroboSoft
StroboSoft 2.0
AutoStrobe 490-ST
AutoStrobe 590
AutoStrobe 490