Answer:
Violas are bowed string instruments, similar to the violin. Unlike the violin, their four strings are tuned a fifth lower, C G D A, with A being 440 hertz. The viola is also larger than the violin, most commonly from 15.5 to 16.5 inches. They are commonly played in a classical music setting (symphony, quartet, etc.) but can be used in more contemporary music, as in the Flobots. They usually carry harmony parts in orchestral work.
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Violas can be argued whether they play more in baroque or classical but I believe baroque music.