I have started to teach my self the cello and I play the violin. Wouldn`t you know it that my wife asks me a question about the viola.

I know the strings "C", "G", "D", and "A" are he same (one octave higher) as the cello. My question is in first position on a violin four fingers down on the "G" string is a "D" the same note as the open "D", string next to it. Likewise four fingers down on the "D" string is an "A", which is the also the same note as the open string next to it. On the Cello this in not true. Four fingers down on the "G" string is not an "D" but only a "C" and four fingers down on the "D" string is not an "A" but it`s a "G". My question is, how is the viola set up, is it like a cello or a violin?
I didn`t want to answer her question as the viola is strung like a cello but played like a violin.

Thanks ~ Danny

It`s set up like a violin..

So that is to say in first position four fingers down on the "G" string is an "D".
I wonder why that would be, as the viola is strung like a cello; "C", "G", "D", "A". Maybe it`s the physical size of the instrument?

Thanks ~ Danny

it`s just because it`s a fifth lower, that`s all.

Liz