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Friday, September 12, 2014

Insights On Violin Chinrest Styles

By Jody Leach


It is out of doubt that many string players are using a chin rest that came with the violin or viola during purchase. However, this fact sounds so unfortunate since many instruments are rented or sold with chin rest models which fit relatively few people. Consequently, by playing with equipment that came with the instrument or works with someone else, a player risks missing out on an opportunity to improve technically and prevent physical injuries. Below are some insights and implications of different violin chinrest styles.

To begin with, the chin rest is particularly necessary to enable the players to have more flexibility and dexterity with their hands and to comfortably move their hands all over the fingerboard. For instance, the first chin rest was made of a bar of wood and kept the instrument from sliding out specifically from under the chin. Eventually, it developed to incorporate a small cup that increased comfort in playing and prevented oily skinned people from ruining the varnish on the violins with their skin.

However, different styles of chin rest provide different individuals with varying levels of comfort. For some people, the types that are flatter cropped on the sides are more comfortable while to others, the deep cups that are more centered on the instrument come handy. In fact, the types are so varied that finding the best one for you can take a great deal of time.

On realizing that you are playing with an ill-fitting instrument, drop it and begin a new search. The best practice in securing the best instrument is to conduct a market survey. This can be done by giving a trip to the violin stores. However, getting a chin rest with a shape that best suits you may demand that you play through numerous of the dozens of varying types of rests. This is particularly due to the fact that there are many shapes available to fit more jaws.

The shape of the jaw and the length of the neck become important when making the selection. Note that the chin rests which fit the shape of the jaw and the length of the neck allows the head to counterbalance the weight of the extended bow arm. The balance can keep that shoulder and the neck healthy. This, in turn, makes the head feel relaxed and the player becomes more comfortable.

It is also paramount to opt for the proper chin rest height. The proper height of the instrument is the one that leaves a gap between the jaw and the top of the rest when the eyes are looking forward. The gap should be about one finger in width. However, you can raise a well-fitted chin rest to the right height by adding a lift or raiser made of cork. This can be done by considering the density of the cork and taking utmost caution not to destabilize the chin rest.

Another factor is the sound produced and the technique employed. The sound resulting from the system and the technique used are closely tied to the type of style employed. To enhance the best sound and technique, be sure to opt for your convenient chin rest style.

All in all, the initial cost of the products also matters. The price varies according to the type of material employed and from one manufacturer to another. However, whatever the price, opt for a great looking, fit-for-purpose and great sounding instrument. Be sure to check them out.




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