I bought a violin or viola at auction. How can I tell which it is?
A viola is slightly larger, thicker, and lower in sound. A violin is slightly smaller, thinner, and has a higher sound. If you are not sure, take it to any music store that sells stringed instruments and they will tell you. Alternatively, you can look inside at the label. If it says 4/4, 3/4 or 1/2 it is a Violin and that is the size. If it says 13" 14" 15" or 16" it is a viola. If it just gives you the brand name and serial number, be sure and record the serial number while you are looking at it. Many shops are taking instruments and substituting similar (less valuable) ones, thinking that their customers will never know the difference.
You can also hold the instrument up against another that you already know about. If you have a friend who has either a violin or viola, just bring it over to their place and hold it up against theirs. Chances are they will know anyway.
You will probably need new strings. (or at least ask a friend how to inspect and clean off the ones that are on there) You should probably get the bow re-haired as well. Buy a new cake of rosin, and a shoulder rest if it isn’t too expensive. If it is, go get one of those bone shaped sponges they use to clean cars with. Cut the sponge in half, and put a large rubber band around it. Put the sponge underneath the instrument and stretch the rubber band over it. If it’s too thick, cut it down a bit.
While you are there, get some kind of a pitch pipe or electronic tuner. There are online sites that will sound the notes for you as well
Hope this helps
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