Strings Program

The violin is the smallest and highest-pitched of the string family, known for its bright, singing tone. In the Cornerstone Orchestra, violinists will develop skills in precision, agility, and expression, playing everything from classical masterpieces to jazz standards and even contemporary songs.

• The violin was created over 500 years ago in Italy. Most violins are made from over 70 pieces of either spruce or maple wood.
• The violin is the smallest and highest-pitched instrument in the string instrument family. It has four strings tuned a fifth apart (E-A-D-G).
• The violin is held on the shoulder and is played by drawing a bow across the strings. The bow is made of horsehair!
• In an orchestra, the violin usually plays the melody line.

The viola is slightly larger than the violin, with a warm, rich, and mellow sound that adds depth to the orchestra. In the Cornerstone Orchestra, viola students will enjoy a unique role, building teamwork and musical sensitivity while learning techniques passed down from generation to generation for hundreds of years.

• The viola looks like and is played the same as the violin, but it is a little bit larger. 
• The viola has longer and thicker strings which produce lower-pitched notes than the violin (A-D-G-C).
• In an orchestra, the viola usually plays the supporting harmony line.

The cello is the lowest and largest of the three, with a deep, resonant sound. Its size gives it a powerful presence, enabling it to play bass lines, harmonies, and even soaring melodies. In the CCA Orchestra, cellists will learn strength, control, and grace, anchoring the orchestra with their sound while embracing techniques and traditions handed down through generations.

• The cello is one of the larger instruments of the string family. It is held between the legs, and you must sit down to play it. 
• The strings of the cello are longer, thicker, and lower/pitched than the viola’s strings (A-D-G-C).
• Cellos often fill the role of providing the bass line in an orchestra.