D'Addario J911 XSM Viola Strings

Prelude Viola A String for Extra Short-Scale Student Instruments

The D'Addario Prelude Viola Single A String, Extra Short Scale, Medium Tension is a purpose-built replacement string for the smallest violas in a student's instrument progression. Designed to fit extra short-scale violas with a body length of 12 inches (305 mm) and smaller, this single A string lets educators and parents replace a worn or broken string without buying a full set. As part of the Prelude line — widely recognized as one of the best-sounding student string families available — this string delivers the warm, focused tone and stable pitch that beginning violists need to develop a confident ear.

Technical Specifications

• Instrument: Viola
• String: A (single replacement string)
• Scale: Extra Short Scale — playing length 12 inches / 305 mm, for violas with body length 12" and smaller
• Tension: Medium
• Core: Solid Steel
• Winding: Nickel Wound
• Ending: Ball End
• SKU: J911 XSM
• Origin: Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA at D'Addario's New York production facility

Who This String Is For

The D'Addario Prelude Viola Single A String is the right choice for educators, parents, and beginning violists who need a reliable replacement A string for an extra short-scale student viola. Its medium tension and balanced feel make it comfortable under the bow for young players still developing their technique, while the solid steel core and nickel winding deliver the warm, mellow tone that defines the Prelude family. Unaffected by temperature and humidity changes, this string holds pitch reliably in classroom, rehearsal, and home-practice environments — a practical advantage for school music programs and rental fleets. Equally suited to classical training, fiddle, jazz, and alternative styles, it gives a student a consistent tonal foundation across genres.