h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Actually the composers of today seem to appriciate the viola very much. It often seems like there is more chamber music written for the viola than for the violin these days. This has been going on for a while. In Saeveruds first string quartet (Serenade of the two rivals) the viola is actually the leader of the group and sits where the first violin normaly sits. The two rivals are the viola and the cello and the two violins are placed in a role of commenting or supporting then one then the other. Also the new works in which the players are sitting in the traditional pattern almost always contain important viola solos. The roles are changing. It is a long time since the only role of the instrument was to fill the chords.

Cool! I need to find some of that music.