Emma Ayres on The Viola: A big violin, a small cello, or just a joke?

As the old joke goes, the definition of a gentleman is someone who can play the viola, but chooses not to. So, what is a viola? Why did all the most famous composers play it, including Jimi Hendrix? And why is this beautiful instrument the laughing stock of the orchestra?

Emma Ayres is a classically trained musician and the darling of ABC Classic FM Breakfast. Today, she lets loose on the viola haters in a classical-music rant that will make everyone sit up and listen. To dispel any final doubts, she will also play.

Lunchbox/Soapbox

We love exploring ideas at the Wheeler Centre, and encouraging others to do the same. That’s why every Thursday lunchtime we hand the microphone over to the great thinkers, dreamers and orators of our time.

With a dazzling range of passionate speakers and unusual topics, our soapbox provides a platform for the eclectic, topical and enlightening stories you won’t hear elsewhere. This is the most memorable lunch break you’ll have all week.

If you’re in need of sustenance of body as well as mind, the MOAT lunch cart will be serving delicious $15 lunchboxes in the performance space from 12.20pm.