At first glance, an uninitiated listener can easily confuse this bowed string instrument with a violin. Indeed, apart from the size, they are externally similar. But one has only to listen to its timbre – the difference is noticeable immediately, chest and at the same time surprisingly soft and slightly muffled sound resembles a contralto – soft and expressive. When thinking about stringed instruments, the viola is usually forgotten in favor of its smaller or larger counterparts, but the rich timbre and interesting history make it look closer. Viola is a philosopher’s instrument, without attracting attention, he modestly settled himself in the orchestra between the violin and the cello. Read the history of the viola and…