The steps:
1. Tune the strings with the fine tuning pegs. From left to right, the strings are C, G, D, and A, with C being the thickest. Tune along to another instrument that’s in key or use a digital tuner. Set the tuner to C and lightly pluck the C string with your finger. Locate the fine tuning pegs near the bottom of strings. Rotate the fine tuning pegs counterclockwise to go down in pitch or clockwise to go up until your string matches the tuner. Continue tuning the other strings to G, D, and A respectively. If the string doesn’t sound close to the tuner’s pitch right away, use the pegs at the top of the viola’s neck to adjust the strings.
2. Wiggle your finger on the neck to give the note slight variations. Press down on a string with your finger so you’re pointing toward your body. Keep your finger completely curled while holding onto the string. Wiggle your finger forward and backward without moving it along the string. Pull your bow across the string so you can hear the pitch change while your finger moves. This technique is called vibrato.
Tip: If you find it hard to wiggle your finger, start by moving your arm forward and back first. When you start feeling comfortable, move your wrist back and forth. Then, use just your fingers.
3. Pluck the strings with your right index finger for shorter staccato notes. Set your bow aside while you’re plucking. Place the pad of the index finger on your right hand against the string. Pluck the string by pulling the pad of your finger across it. The note will be short and sharp. Many pieces have plucking sections in between parts where you use your bow. Practice switching between using your bow and plucking to create a smooth transition.
4. Bounce the bow on the strings to rapidly play short notes. Instead of pulling the bow across the string in a single movement, let the bow gently bounce off them. Use the middle of your bow since it’s the bounciest area. Once your bow hits the string, lift it off immediately. The note played will feel short and energetic.
This technique is known as spiccato. You can bounce on the string multiple times to play notes close together.
5. Practice scales. Start by playing your C string without pressing down on it. The C is your starting note for the scale. Press down on the C string with your index finger near the top of the neck to create the next note. Use a tuner to ensure you’re playing the next note in the scale, which is D. Use your tuner to find the next 3 notes, E, F, and G, and play them with your middle finger, ring finger, and pinky. To finish your scale switch to the G string and use your tuner to find A, B, and high C.
You can find a fingering chart for the notes on your viola here: https://www.violaonline.com/violafingeringchart.htm.
The notes will slightly vary in location since the size of your fingers affects the pitch.