What is Scala Corta Viola?

Scala Corta Viola is a 16” viola with an ultra-short string length of 355mm. 

A regular 16” viola has a string length of 365mm-375mm

Can I use regular viola strings?

Yes, we have tried many different brands such as Evah Pirazzi, Obligato, Larsen, Spirocore, Jargar and Kaplan, they all work well on the viola. You may want to look at the package and choose medium scale when applicable.

Why is the Body style wider than a regular Stradivari Model?

For viola the air volume dictates what we consider a true viola sound. Which is why larger size violas usually sound better than smaller sized violas. To compensate for a shorter length in body we made it a bit wider to come closer to a 16 ½” viola sound.

Who should be considering Scala Corta viola and why?

Most adult violists can play it. It is also of advantage of violinists that have to switch from violin to viola often as the difference in string length allows for speedy adaption. Scala Corta is especially comfortable for people with small hands, short fingers, or arthritis.

How long will it take me to adjust my intonation?

It only takes a few minutes to adjust to the shorter string length.

Is Scala Corta a totally new idea?

Not really, Italian instrument makers such as Gasparo Da Salo and Giovanni Paolo Maggini of Brescia have been making instruments with varied string lengths as early as the 1590s. The standardization of string length was introduced in the advent of the industrial age to stream line mass production of stringed instruments in France and Germany.

Where can I try one out?

You can look up the dealer list on the Scala Corta website and contact your nearest dealer. We also have a list of Scala Corta owners that may live in your area and are willing to let you take a look at their Scala Corta if the nearest dealer is too far away.