Saturday, April 19, 2014

Make The Right Choice Between Different Violin Chinrest Styles

By Essie Osborn


Chinrests are used to free the left hand without exposing you to the risk of dropping your instrument. Finding the right style enhances your technical ability by eliminating physical barriers. Many players may not be aware of the importance of getting this aspect right. They probably got theirs with the instrument and never gave it a second thought.

There are different violin chinrest styles to fit individual tastes and preferences. The choice made affects the posture of play. An instrument that is well supported helps the player to find balance between the left hand and the collarbone. The player has a chance to concentrate and therefore improve on his technical skills.

A player will identify natural signs indicating that his chin rest is not properly placed. They include aches and pains that lead to clenching problems after a prolonged period of use. Allowing an instrument to lie on the same position applies undue pressure.

Players should watch out for signs of discomfort. They range from difficulty in tilting the head left and right in an attempt to keep the violin in position during play. The positions that one has to adapt are unnatural. They eventually affect individual style of play and in the process cause the player to lack professionalism.

The stylishness of chin rests may affect the quality of sound produced during play. It alters the technique used by different players depending on positioning. Classical players were not using the cups. Contemporary violinists have adapted the trend to introduce an element of dexterity and flexibility. A player is given easier access to the fingering board.

Players with oily skins are advised to use chinrests because protect the varnish from peeling off. The degree of comfort depends on individual taste. Each person has a unique degree that depends on individual playing style. A violinist should consider such factors when choosing a cup.

It takes time to identify the best style for you. Some players would prefer one that is capped on the side because of how they position their violin. Others prefer a centrally placed cap for personal reasons. After using each of these options for a while, a player is able to identify what suits his style of play.

A free left hand helps to improve technical playing skills as the player moves the fingers over the board. Undue pressure is not applied on the neck or the jaw which translates into an incredible experience during practice or concerts. The bump on the neck is never painful and does not change features on your face.

Sound production is affected by how chinrests are clipped on violin bodies. Going deep into the body prevents vibration and affects sound depth and resonance. This means that clipping should be a concern for anyone using a chinrest. The cups are also useful in adapting an instrument if it is too big or small.

Chinrests are used to accentuate instruments by selecting a matching color or pattern. The fancy designs available in the market are used to enhance appearance but must consider the essence which is better sound production. It is a delicate balance between appearance and quality sound production.




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