The viola is somewhat of an enigma and from a distance can be hard to tell apart from the violin. Daniel Foster explains how composers used the viola over the centuries, what his role as Principal Viola entails, and plays for us some extraordinary parts written for the viola.
Show Notes
Daniel Foster, Principal Viola of the National Symphony Orchestra
Violist Daniel Foster's varied career encompasses orchestral, chamber, and solo playing, as well as teaching. After capturing the First Prize in both the William Primrose and Washington International Competitions, Mr. Foster became a member of the National Symphony viola section in 1993 and was appointed Principal by Music Director Leonard Slatkin in 1995. Mr. Foster has appeared frequently as a soloist with the National Symphony since his appointment.