Question

Does anyone have a tip for learning the alto clef?

Answer 1

you can straight out memorize it or you can create a fun way.

Answer 2

Which clef(s) can you read and which instrument(s) do you play?

Answer 3

The middle of the alto clef is a C. The lines from the bottom spell out FACEG sort of like the spaces in the Treble clef. and then the spaces of the Alto clef are G(good)B(boys)D(do)F(fine) kind of like what is on the treble clef. So it is backwards from the treble clef's notes.

Answer 4

Hope that helps.

Answer 5

I already played the violin and the piano, so I only needed to learn how to read the alto clef—it wasn't difficult to grasp which notes were now within reach on the C string compared to the violin. What I found most useful was joining a community orchestra as a violist. Much of the time the parts aren't too challenging, and you can hear where you fit in the chords to help you decide which note that spot on the page is. I most emphatically suggest you do not do any of the silly "pretend you're in 3rd position and over 1 string" sorts of mnemonics, but instead focus on learning the direct association between what you see and where it is on the instrument.

At Meadowmount we decided some years ago that all students who were assigned a 1st violin spot in a quartet would also have to play viola in another quartet. No amount of complaining about "I don't have a viola" or "my teacher thinks it will affect my intonation" or "I don't know how to read the clef" would change things — for a few stubborn types, we just pointed to the picture of Zukerman on the wall in the dining room and asked why an exception should be made for them when it wasn't for Pinky. We had a supply of violas to lend to the students who didn't have one. Invariably, after a few days of complaining, everyone turned out to be able to pick it up.

Answer 6

thank you all! sorry, i have been out of town. i have played the violin for 5 years, and just started the viola.

Answer 7

OMG IM A GRADE 7 VIOLA PLAYER. What you must always remember is the middle line is c the line below is b and the line above is d. but i dont really play by he notes i use the fingers. Omg Good Luck with your playing! its nice to have more Viola PLayers!!!!!! xxxxx:-) Let me know if you need any more tips! XXXXXX

Answer 8

@Brunette13