u/Altruistic_Tie9943

Hello everyone,

I would like to know how easy or difficult it is to switch from the cello to the viola da gamba. Would I be able to feel comfortable and learn to play simple pieces fairly quickly, or are the techniques completely different?

I studied cello for 8 years at a conservatory and still play regularly. I’m quite comfortable with bow hold and left-hand technique. In practice, almost all of my favorite pieces and composers are written for the viol, and I would really love to play this magnificent instrument. I’d like to know whether the similarities between the two instruments are only superficial or genuinely technical as well.

Thank you.