Viennese-born Heinrich Koll studied at the Vienna Musikhochschule and was awarded a diploma with distinction in 1975. From 1976 to 1980 he was principal violist with the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, and since 1980 has been principal violist with the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. He has appeared as a soloist with the Vienna Philharmonic, for example at the Salzburg Mozart Week and at the opening of the Mozart Year. In his comprehensive booklet notes Heinrich Koll writes about the history of his instrument, the character of the viola in the orchestra and the legend of old instruments. There is an entertaining section devoted to viola jokes. This is the third release in a series which features top players of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.