A guide to starting the viola da gamba as a hobby in 2025

When most people think of taking up a musical instrument as a hobby, the standard choices of "piano," "guitar," or "violin" probably come to mind. However, if the words "Viola da Gamba" come to mind, you must be a serious enthusiast or have a great deal of curiosity.



First, let's clear up a basic misunderstanding.



◆ "Viola! Gambarra!" It is not "Gamba!
It is not "Gambare Viola," but rather "Viola played between the legs (gamba)," which is Italian for "viola. In short, a stringed instrument played by placing it between the legs like a modern cello. Hence the name "viola," but it is completely different from the modern viola. The viola is not an aleatory instrument, but rather an aristocratic instrument of the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque that has its own unique aesthetic.

◆The viola is not found in modern orchestras.
The viola da gamba, once a favorite instrument of the European courts, gradually disappeared in the late Baroque period and is almost never used in modern orchestras. However, it still quietly echoes its sound in ancient music ensembles and among lovers of Baroque music.

So how can we learn this elegant ancient instrument as a hobby in the year 2025?

(i) Get the viola da gamba!

First, you need an instrument to get started. However, since the viola da gamba is not as readily available at music stores as the violin or guitar, consider the following options.

Purchase or rent at a specialized store or workshop
There are only a few musical instrument workshops that deal with the viola da gamba, but there are specialty stores in Japan and abroad. In Japan, there are workshops specializing in baroque instruments and routes to import from European craftsmen.
Some places offer rental services, so it is recommended to try one out first before making a decision.

Check the used market and auctions.
Surprisingly, you can find used instruments at online auctions and second-hand markets specializing in old instruments. Be sure to choose a used one in good condition.

Contrabass players are lucky!
Actually, the viola da gamba has a similar tuning system to the double bass and is fretted, so those with double bass experience can easily get used to it. This is perfect for you who played the double bass in a brass band and love the lower registers!

Find a teacher!

Unlike modern instruments, there are a limited number of people who can teach the viola da gamba. Find a teacher in the following ways

Find a music school specializing in ancient music
In large cities, there are music schools specializing in ancient music, and you may be able to find a teacher who can teach viola da gamba.

Take advantage of online lessons
Nowadays, online lessons are available, and gamba players in Japan and abroad teach via Skype or Zoom. Gamba culture is especially strong in France and England, and it is possible to learn directly from overseas teachers.

Join a community of baroque music lovers
In Japan, there are also ancient music ensemble circles and viola da gamba enthusiasts' associations, from which you may be able to learn.

(iii) What kind of music can you play?

What kind of music can I play if I start playing viola da gamba?

Is Bach's "Suite for Unaccompanied Cello" possible?
Some people ask, "Can I play Bach's cello suites on the gamba? In fact, it is possible. However, it is required to play it in a way that makes the most of the expression peculiar to the gamba.

The king of the gamba, Marin Marais
He is a master of French Baroque gamba music, and is also famous for the movie "Toute rue Bleue. His works allow you to enjoy the charm of the gamba to the fullest.

Concerto with friends in Consort Music
In the "viola da gamba consort" (ensemble) of the Renaissance period, gambas of various sizes form an ensemble and sound like the court music of the Middle Ages.

The key to continuing is to have fun.

The viola da gamba has limited lesson environment and information compared to other common instruments. However, this, on the contrary, is also "maniacal fun.

Finding a Gamba Friend
By joining a community, you can connect with other gamba lovers and exchange information with them.

Take it in casually.
For example, try out covers of contemporary and pop music as well as baroque music. Some performers actually incorporate it into jazz and world music.

Elegance, but in a casual way
The viola da gamba has an elegant appearance, but the playing itself is surprisingly free and improvisational. The trick is to continue playing without getting carried away and to enjoy it for a long time.

summary

To start playing the viola da gamba as a hobby requires a bit of geeky knowledge and energy, but you will surely become attached to it as "your own special instrument".

In 2025, why don't you step into the "world of viola da gamba"?
Come on, "It's the viola! Gamba!" but let's have fun and do our best!