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Can I teach myself to play the viola?
With proper instruction, you can teach yourself to play the viola. MusicProfessor’s step-by-step process will not only assist you in teaching yourself, it will provide you with high-quality examples of how the viola should sound, so you can self-assess and learn right from the start.
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Is viola easy to learn?
With proper instruction, the viola is easy to learn. All instruments require practice to develop good sound and technique, and viola is no exception. MusicProfessor’s viola library is easy to follow, provides expert demonstrations, and is self-paced, which means you can watch videos when it is convenient for you, and rewatch lessons as often as you need to until you fully absorb the content.
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Can I learn viola without a teacher?
It can be challenging to learn an instrument without proper guidance. This is why MusicProfessor is a great way to get started learning the viola. Not only is MusicProfessor more affordable than in-person lessons, the teacher is an expert in viola education and will guide you step-by-step, at your own pace and on your own schedule.
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Can you be too old to play the viola?
You cannot be too old to learn to play the viola. In fact, learning to play the viola can help your body maintain its precision dexterity and keep your mind malleable. Learning to play an instrument is a great way to keep your body and mind young.
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Can I learn viola from home?
You can learn viola from home on any device with a browser. Simply login to MusicProfessor and practice along with the easy to follow video curriculum.
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Can I really learn viola online?
You really can learn viola online! Learning online is affordable, and the curriculum is self paced, which means you can watch videos when it is convenient for you, and rewatch lessons as often as you need to until you fully absorb the content.
Overview
Learn to play one of the most enjoyable orchestral string instruments: the viola. Its singing tones will resonate with players of all ages. We'll teach you how!
This video library is perfect for:
- Beginning viola players ready to get started right
- Violists wanting to learn to play viola at home
- Self-paced learners
- Violists needing a refreshed technique to improve their sound
In this library you’ll learn:
- A full beginners guide to playing the viola
- How to read the alto clef
- How a viola sounds
- Proper tone and technique for playing viola
- How to practice the viola
- How to tune the viola
- Intermediate techniques for viola, like shifting
- How to learn to play the music you love
- And so much more...
Curriculum
Instructors
Gary DePaolo
Gary DePaolo received his bachelor’s degree in Viola Performance from DePaul University in Chicago, IL. While attending he studied with Chicago Lyric Opera Principal Violist, Rami Solomonov and was coached in chamber music by the Chicago String Quartet. Having recently completed his master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Montana State University, DePaolo is entering his ninth year as the director of the orchestra and guitar programs at Kelly Walsh High School in Casper Wyoming. There he conducts three orchestras and a guitar ensemble. In 2019 his groups joined Laramie High School and the String Academy of Wyoming to travel to and perform in Ireland. DePaolo has been a guest director for the Wyoming State String Clinic and judge for Colorado ASTA. He is also an adjunct string instructor at Casper College and the principal violist of the Wyoming Symphony Orchestra. Both are positions that he has held for the last 21 years. DePaolo is an avid composer having created underscores for Richard the 3rd, The Diviners, The Scarlet Letter , the Laramie project and various other works. He has always been a collaborator with local bands and musical groups. His group “ Leave it to S.H.I.V.A.” was featured in the Wyoming Arts Council 2021 “Summer Roadtrip” playlist. DePaolo’s private teaching focuses on ease and tension-free viola playing with traditional and nontraditional repertoire.