Viola Fingering Chart

Interactive first‑position mapping • alto‑clef reading • intonation & bowing • PDF

Interactive Viola Fingering Chart

🛠️ How to Use This Chart

Step 1: Set Key Signature

Sharps and flats determine finger spacing patterns in first position.

Step 2: Select a Written Note

See suggested string and finger (0=open, 1–4) with alto‑clef display.

Step 3: Check Intonation

Use drones and listen for sympathetic resonance with nearby open strings.

Current Key: C Major
No sharps or flats
Interactive Viola Fingerboard (First Position) Fingerboard with C–G–D–A strings and first‑position markers 0–4. A D G C
Current Note: Select a note
Click a note button to see string and finger
Musical Notation (Alto Clef)
Select a note to display

Select a Note (First Position)

Viola Fingering Chart Image

Viola Fingering Chart Image

High‑contrast PDF for lessons and practice. Go to Download Page or open PDF directly: Open PDF

🎶 Reading Music

Viola primarily reads alto clef 𝄡. If you’re new to key signatures or accidentals, review our Music Notes Guide.

Understanding the Viola

Strings and First Position

  • Open strings: C3, G3, D4, A4.
  • Fingers: 0=open, 1=index, 2=middle, 3=ring, 4=pinky.
  • Finger spacing: Depends on key (low/high 2 etc.); set the frame before playing.

Intonation Strategies

  • Use drones on tonic/dominant; listen for sympathetic resonance with adjacent open strings.
  • Place fingers from the base knuckle; keep wrist neutral and thumb soft.
  • Common patterns: C/F major (Bb), G/D/A majors (F# C# G# as applicable).

Bowing Essentials

  • Relaxed, balanced bow hold; index controls weight, pinky balances at the frog.
  • Keep bow parallel to the bridge; stable contact point; consistent speed/weight.
  • Separate/Slurred bowings: maintain left‑hand clarity with right‑hand continuity.

Viola Common First‑Position Fingerings

Written Note String Finger Pattern Tip
D3 C 1 Low vs high 2 depends on key
E3 C 2 Check with open A4 fifth when applicable
F3 C 3 Frame hand with low/high 2 decision
G3 G 0 Reference for tuning D3–F3
A3 G 1 Match with open D4 fifth
B3 G 2 (high) High 2 in G/D/A keys
C4 G 3 Check unison/octave with open C3/G3

Shifting Basics

  • Start with 1–3 finger guide shifts; thumb travels with the hand.
  • Anticipate the new frame; place fingers lightly and listen for pure intervals.
  • Practice slow portamenti to coordinate left hand and bow.

Recommended Beginner Violas

Work with a teacher/shop to select proper size, setup, and strings. Ensure comfortable action height, stable pegs/fine tuners, and a responsive bow. Popular student brands include Yamaha, Eastman, and Scott Cao.

Practice Tips and Common Issues

  • Left‑hand tension: Keep thumb gentle; fingers fall from above; avoid squeezing the neck.
  • Bow straightness: Watch contact point in a mirror; use open strings to calibrate.
  • Rhythm and articulation: Use metronome; coordinate bow changes with finger lifts.
  • Intonation: Drone practice; tune to open strings and ringing tones.
  • Daily structure: Open‑string tone → scales (key pattern) → etude → piece → cool‑down.