[Viola] 6 Recommended Viola Strings

*From the Pirastro Official Website

The viola, a string instrument slightly larger than the violin, offers a pleasingly rich lower register. Are you familiar with the various brands and types of viola strings available? Like violins, violas also have a wide range of strings offered by different manufacturers. In this blog, I’ll introduce my six top-recommended viola strings!

■ Top 6 Recommended Viola Strings

When choosing viola strings, the best approach is to try them out and see if they suit your preferences. Below are the characteristics of each string type—take a look and enjoy exploring!

01 Thomastik-Infeld / Dominant Viola Strings

• Thomastik-Infeld / Dominant Viola A String: Nylon Core, Aluminum Wound, Medium
• Thomastik-Infeld / Dominant Viola D String: Nylon Core, Aluminum Wound, Medium
• Thomastik-Infeld / Dominant Viola G String: Nylon Core, Silver Wound, Medium
• Thomastik-Infeld / Dominant Viola C String: Nylon Core, Silver Wound, Medium

The Dominant Series by Thomastik-Infeld is a staple for violinists and just as popular among viola players, whether beginners or experienced. If you’re unsure which strings to choose, starting with these is a safe bet. They are known for their soft yet powerful tonal qualities.

02 D’Addario / Helicore Viola Strings

• D’Addario / H410 SM Helicore Viola String Set: Short Scale, Medium
• D’Addario / H410 LM Helicore Viola String Set: Long Scale, Medium

The Helicore Series by D’Addario is widely loved among their string collections. Known for stable pitch and clear sound, these strings come in four scale lengths: Short, Medium, Long, and Extra Long. The Long Scale version also offers three tension options: Medium, Light, and Heavy.

03 Pirastro / Obligato Viola Strings

• Pirastro / Obligato Viola A String: Steel Aluminum Wound, Medium
• Pirastro / Obligato Viola D String: Silver Wound, Medium
• Pirastro / Obligato Viola G String: Silver Wound, Medium
• Pirastro / Obligato Viola C String: Silver Wound, Medium

The Obligato Series by Pirastro is highly popular, offering a rich and deep sound suitable for players of all levels, from beginners to professionals. These strings feature Pirastro’s signature synthetic core, ensuring both durability and reliability.

04 Pirastro / Evah Pirazzi Viola Strings

• Pirastro / Evah Pirazzi Viola A String: Chrome Steel Wound, Medium
• Pirastro / Evah Pirazzi Viola D String: Synthetic Silver Wound, Medium
• Pirastro / Evah Pirazzi Viola G String: Synthetic Silver Wound, Medium
• Pirastro / Evah Pirazzi Viola C String: Tungsten-Silver Wound, Medium

The Evah Pirazzi Series is known for its dynamic and powerful sound. These strings are versatile, suitable not only for traditional violas but also for electric and pickup-equipped violas. If you’re looking to add punch to your sound, these are worth trying!

05 Larsen Strings / Original Viola Strings

• Larsen Strings / Original Viola A String: Ball-End, Medium
• Larsen Strings / Original Viola D String: Ball-End, Medium
• Larsen Strings / Original Viola G String: Ball-End, Medium
• Larsen Strings / Original Viola C String: Ball-End, Medium

Made by Denmark’s leading string manufacturer, Larsen Strings, the Original viola strings feature a unique multi-filament nylon core. These strings are celebrated for their beautiful, mellow tone.

06 Jargar / Classic Viola Strings

• Jargar / Classic Viola A String: Medium, Ball-End
• Jargar / Classic Viola D String: Medium
• Jargar / Classic Viola G String: Medium
• Jargar / Classic Viola C String: Medium

The Classic viola strings by Jargar Strings strike a balance between brilliance and warmth. Made with a steel core, these strings are also highly stable in tuning.

What did you think? Each manufacturer offers unique viola strings with distinct tonal qualities. Why not take this opportunity to try something different from your usual strings? You might just find a new favorite!