Igudesman Viola Grotesca

{See video at top of page}

Unconventional 5-string soloist

This 5-stringed hybrid combines the tone and range of a viola with the short scale and long reach of a violin, with string number 5 stretching downwards into cello territory. The bulbous, lumpy body shape gives it a fabulous resonance, and overall it has a warm, gritty sound, particularly in the low registers.

Odd to look at, but beautiful to listen to, especially when played by the inimitable Aleksey Igudesman, and incorporating his unique techniques. An instrument to surprise and inspire in equal measure—for any tracks that require a touch of the unusual.

Highlights

• Rare instrument with an unusual sound and special tunings.
• 2 sustain note options, with legato.
• 3 short note options.
• Chord patches with repetitions—maj, min, open.
• Arpeggio patch in 3 tunings.
• Swashbuckler rhythmic patterns.
• 7 mic positions, including 4 close mic options and surround.
• Recorded at Teldex Scoring Stage, Berlin.

Celebrating the unconventional

This is an unusual instrument, and Aleksey Igudesman is a most unusual player—constantly and creatively exploring the boundaries of technique. We set out to capture this bold aesthetic with patches that help you create rhythm...

Open chords

Three patches for three different repetitions. Each one is two notes playing an octave apart—sounding either once, twice, or three times. Combine them to create rhythmic patterns, adding drive and movement.

Arpeggios

The wide tonal range of the instrument lends itself to these wide rhythmic arpeggios. You can sync them to your host tempo, and you use the variation slider to select your tuning: Major, minor, or open.

Swashbucklers

Almost as a bonus, we recorded variations of rhythmic patterns in 4/4 and 5/4. Those familiar with Aleksey's work will be familiar with the sound, which invokes his rogueish sense of adventure with a subtle raised third. Each swashbuckler pattern offers variations to work with in the performance tab.