Object

Ten-Forward Quartet Viola (Data's Performance Instrument)

A mid-sized orchestral string instrument—slightly larger than a violin—constructed from varnished tonewoods with four steel-wound strings and a curved wooden bridge. It sits in Ten-Forward, ready on a chair or under the arm of a quartet member. Data moves to pick it up and hold it in playing position, fingers poised on the fingerboard as he prepares to join the ensemble.

2 appearances

Purpose

To produce warm, alto-range string tones as part of a chamber quartet performance in Ten-Forward.

Significance

Serves as the focal prop for an intimate character beat: Data accepting mentorship and stepping into a more vulnerable, collaborative role. The instrument helps create domestic calm that is abruptly shattered when an urgent Sheliak hail interrupts the performance, marking the tonal shift from personal growth to external crisis.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S3E2 · The Ensigns of Command

Data's Honest Performance / Picard's Leadership Lesson

A viola (designated as the quartet's mid-range instrument) is held by a seated woman, contributing to the visual ensemble and underscoring the musical context; it stands as part of the group's readiness to perform if Data plays or abstains.

Before: Held by the seated performer and ready for the impending performance.

After: Remains in the musician's possession as the quartet prepares to play and begins playing once Picard departs.

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S3E2 · The Ensigns of Command

Concert Cut Short by Sheliak Transmission

Data's performance instrument — the mid-sized viola attributed to him — is carried into Ten-Forward and physically anchors his intention to play. Its presence underscores his willingness to join the humans in a vulnerable act of expression and embodies the lesson Picard and Beverly give.

Before: In Data's possession at the door, ready to be taken into playing position.

After: Moved into place with the quartet as Data takes his seat, prepared for performance when the hail interrupts.

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