I just had to write a note about this post. I started playing the viola in 6th grade; the range of the instrument just sounded and felt richer to me than that of a violin. Ufortunately I could not continue beyond that year. I was playing in the school's six person orchestra -- three violins, two violas and a cello -- so the school paid for the instruction. But we moved way out into the country and private lessons were too expensive and an hour's drive away. I remember those first two agonizing weeks all too clearly, it feels like you contorting your neck, shoulder and arm in ways Martha Graham wouldn't have attempted. But then it becomes natural as walking, your chin fits perfectly into the cup...I still sometimes hold pencils with a bow grip. I was so proud of my scratched, used viola. I loved scratching up my rosen block and carefully adjusting the tension on the bow hair. I couldn't wait for the day when I would learn to tune my instrument myself. I keep hoping that someday I will find space in my life to take it back up again.