Summary

Imperfect Viola is a sample library featuring viola sounds recorded with natural imperfections to capture the humanity of a live player. It includes several patches like Viola Ensemble, Viola solo, and viola samples processed to mimic violin and cello timbres.

Features

• Four patches: Viola Ensemble (keyboard panned for string trio feel), Viola with legato, Cello-esque, and Violin-esque simulations based on viola samples.
• Legato mode with various settings controlled by an assignable MIDI controller (default CC11), allowing monophonic or polyphonic play with advanced scripting by Big Bob.
• Three dynamic layers: pianissimo with bow bounce, non-vibrato, and lush vibrato.
• Impulse response reverb included; samples were recorded dry to allow external reverb addition.
• Velocity-sensitive attack, with softer velocities resulting in slower attacks.

Concept and Approach

The library was created by an amateur violist seeking to reproduce the realistic nuances and subtle imperfections in live string performance often missing in deeply sampled, pristine libraries. It includes natural bow bounces, fingerboard sounds, residual resonance, and pre-note breaths to convey humanity.

The project is ongoing with plans for commercial chromatic re-recording, and additional vocal libraries are in development.

Usage Notes

Optimal playability requires expressive use of the modwheel to smoothly transition between dynamic and vibrato layers. The library encourages embracing imperfections rather than perfect technical precision, aiming to recreate the realistic sound of a human player.