(Ital.) : Unusual tuning of a stringed instrument in order to increase its range or change its character for a dramatic effect. In Mozart's Sinfonia Concertante (GP 73), the viola is tuned up a half step to increase its resonance (in comparison to the violin); more typical examples are the violin solos in Saint-Saëns's Danse macabre and Mahler's Fourth Symphony, movt. II.

boast of members of the brass section about certain young member of 2nd violins

(''It.'') – An alternate tuning used for the open strings of a string instrument. External link: About Scordatura and the Viola d'amore.

Unconventional tuning of a stringed instrument.

A scordatura (literally Italian for "mistuning") is an alternate tuning used for the open strings of a string instrument. It is an extended technique used to allow the playing of otherwise impossible melodies, harmonies, figures, chords, or other note combinations.