Turning Up the Alto Clef at Schwob Viola Day

Written by Diego Montes

Photos via Schwob School of Music

On September 20, the Schwob School of Music will once again open its doors for a full day dedicated to one of the most unique and expressive instruments in the orchestra: the viola. This year’s Viola Day promises to be a particularly special event, featuring a combination of workshops, presentations, and concerts designed to celebrate the instrument, highlight the talents of the Schwob Viola Studio, and welcome young violists into the community. 

Unlike previous years, the event will not feature guest artists as faculty of the event but rather will be led entirely by Dr. Katrin Meidell and the Schwob Viola Studio. The schedule is packed with opportunities for participants to grow as musicians: a mass viola ensemble, a technique workshop, a music business session led by Professor Paul Hostetter, a body mapping presentation with Dr. Andrée Martin, and a talk on public musicology by Dr. Reba Wissner. For students preparing for auditions, there will also be dedicated GMEA All-State Etude workshops. Two concerts will anchor the day’s activities: Dr. Meidell’s recital and the Viola Day Participants’ Concert. 

For many students, Dr. Meidell’s recital is one of the most anticipated highlights of the day. Viola Graduate student Summer Wojtczack shared her excitement: “I am most excited about Dr. Meidell’s recital. I enjoy watching her perform and cannot wait to see what repertoire she will play!” Beyond the performances, Wojtczack said the event also showcases the closeness of the Schwob viola community. “We are a group of close-knit friends who love our instrument and will be able to spend the day together with fellow violists, who may be our future classmates!” 

The impact of Viola Day extends beyond the Schwob School of Music. It serves as a powerful recruitment tool and a chance to inspire the next generation of violists. Carlos Rada reflected on this broader vision. “Viola Day will positively impact the school, allowing us to show the viola as an instrument that deserves to be studied, practiced, and recognized in the field of classical music," he said. "With the proper marketing and support, Viola Day could change the recruitment for the next season. It absolutely will generate more interest in the viola as an instrument as well.” He also pointed out how unique activities remind musicians of the importance of caring for their bodies as part of their artistry. This year, participants will experience a Body Mapping presentation—an exciting new addition—while last year featured Yoga for Performers, showing how Viola Day continues to evolve in creative and holistic ways. 

Echoing Rada's thoughts, Anderson Vallecillo added: “I think it will have a positive impact because the violists who come will see an opportunity for growing at Schwob, and the viola section will be strengthened by having more exposure. I like to share with violists and play alongside them because I can always learn something new.” His advice for new participants is simple but encouraging: “I advise you not to be afraid to apply because it will be a great experience and you will surely learn something new.” 

Together, these perspectives reveal how Viola Day nurtures not only the growth of individual musicians but also strengthens the viola community within Columbus and beyond. It is a day that blends music-making, friendship, and professional development, creating a space where young players can envision themselves as part of a thriving studio. This year, Viola Day carries an even greater significance as the Schwob Viola Studio prepares to travel to Paris for the International Viola Congress, where their proposal was accepted by a panel of viola experts and they will perform on an international stage as a studio. The work and performances during Viola Day will serve as both preparation for this exciting opportunity and support for the ongoing development of the studio. It also plays an important role in funding efforts and in the continuous construction of a vibrant, thriving viola community here in Columbus. 

The event will conclude with the Viola Day Participants’ Concert, where everyone will have the chance to perform—an inspiring finale that embodies the spirit of inclusivity and community. Whether you are a teacher, a student preparing for college, or simply someone curious about the instrument, Viola Day at the Schwob School of Music invites you to join, learn, and celebrate the beautiful sound of the viola. ◾️