Question about viola in baroque music

I am currently writing a concerto in the baroque style. I have it all down except for one thing, the viola. I have no idea what to do with it, should it play the same as the violins? or should it play the bass with the cello and double bass? or something completely different? I hope you guys can help me.

I am currently writing a concerto in the baroque style. I have it all down except for one thing, the viola. I have no idea what to do with it, should it play the same as the violins? or should it play the bass with the cello and double bass? or something completely different? I hope you guys can help me.

Generally, the viola in baroque-ish music usually plays the alto or tenor role (johnny 1 note range, as I've heard it called before.) Give it your rhythmic ideas, harmony, etc. Some melodic content is good as well.

@Mikurya,

It depends. The best thing you can do is check scores. Listen through with scores.

Scores!

In baroque music, the viola sits around bored playing accompaniment quarter notes.

DON'T DO IT!!!!

Doubling either bass or treble fine, but give it it's own stuff and the melody too. It's the middle of the sound, so generally it'll have something a bit different.

Heckel