Hi, Tam, a great decision to take up an instrument, at any age. If Bruce is correct that your family problems have diminished, I congratulate you as well.

First thing: it is not practical to sing while playing the violin or viola (with the modern technique). Any exceptions are in the category of circus artistry rather than music.

The viola is at its best in a multi-voice ensemble, in other words as a harmony part. If you consider playing classical music, the viola is an excellent choice, because the demand is high, so that you need not be as good as the violinists of the same ensemble.

String arrangements for folk songs do exist, but not too many. There are more arrangements for variable instrumentation, or human voices, where the viola can take either the alto or the tenor part. If the sheet music does not exist in viola notation (so-called alto clef), it can be transcribed.

This also applies to virtually all folk tunes. The viola can play as high notes as anyone can sing, and it is reasonably comfortable in the range of typical female folk singers, up to the E in the upper row of the treble clef.

Both instruments take some time and dedication before being a pleasure to hear.

Hope that helps. Have fun with your new hobby.