Viol da gamba project

For some reason I decided that I was not busy enough, and embarked on a journey through the realm of period instruments. The Uconn Collegium group, which performs on authentic recreations of instruments from the 1200-1600's, will be traveling to Ecuador in the spring. As a string major, I found picking up the tenor and bass viol da gamba easier than expected. WHAT IS A VIOL DA GAMBA?
well, let me just tell you:
the viol is a precursor to the modern day violin/cello/viola/bass. It has six strings and 8 or so frets. The intervals of the strings are tuned in the same manner as a guitar. Fourths plus a major third and two more major fourths. The bow is closely related to german bass bow, and is held between the thumb and index fingers, so that pressure can be applied to the bow hair for different strokes and tones. (fear not, I will put pictures up of so you can see what I am talking about).

I also am working on some solo pieces as well as duets and trio ensembles for my recital on November 30th. so you should all check that out. I'll maybe upload some videos later of me playing the thing so you can get a feel for what it sounds like.