

The viola da gamba, also referred to by the English
term viol, is a bowed stringed instrument that originated in the
early Renaissance. It has six strings, frets (like a guitar) and
is played with a bow, between the legs, much like a cello. However,
there are some major differences between the cello and the viol.
In addition to the extra strings, the bow is held underhand and
the instrument is supported entirely by the player’s legs.
The viola da gamba's large repertoire includes beautiful
ensemble music as well as virtuoso solos by famous composers of
the Baroque era. Solo music often utilizes chords, a technique
that comes easily to a fretted instrument. The viola da gamba
comes in several sizes that cover a large range from low bass
notes to the range of a violin.
The viola da gamba is not a precursor to instruments of
violin family; rather, it evolved separately. In fact, the viola da
gamba can be thought of as a bowed lute or guitar. The instrument was
incredibly popular during the Renaissance and Baroque periods among
nobility. Sadly, it was eventually overshadowed by violin-family instruments
(violin, viola and cello), which could produce a louder sound. The single
"viol" family instrument that survived is the modern double
bass. In the 1940s, the viola da gamba was "revived" and began
to be played and studied again all over the world. Though much of its
repertoire is from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, there are quite
a few wonderful contemporary works being written for the instrument.
Viola da Gamba Lessons
Rachel has taught viola
da gamba to musicians of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.
If
you are a modern string player, viol could come naturally to you. Perhaps
you want to learn some earlier repertoire or just try something different.
Players of any instrument are welcome, as are people who have never
played an instrument. Children are also encouraged to play the viola
da gamba. Rachel will answer questions about how to secure an instrument,
either by renting or buying.
Rachel is currently based in the Cleveland area where
she maintains a private studio. She also directs the Case/CIM Viol Consort
which meets on Friday mornings at Case Western Reserve University and
is open to community members. Rachel's freelance performing frequently
takes her to Boston, NYC and Chicago and she is available for workshops,
lectures and demonstrations throughout the US and Canada.