Sunday, July 13, 2014

Choosing Between Different Violin Chinrest Styles

By Marylou Forbes


Chin rests have been used to free the left hand so that the violin player can concentrate on strings. There are different violin chinrest styles that enhance the quality of sound produced. This accessory has transformed the way this instrument is used. It is acquired as a customized addition to violins depending on personal preference for each player.

Each player has a different style which is determined by the music and training. The right choice of a rest will help in mastery of technical skills and improve sound production for the instrument. Supporting your instrument well helps to improve balance between the left hand and collarbone. This is necessary for mastery of technical skills.

Failure to place the chin rest in the right position can be identified naturally. This is signaled by pains or aches which are followed by clenching challenges after a prolonged period with the instrument. This happens because of the pressure that comes with positioning the violin at the same place for too long.

Discomfort during play indicates that the positioning is not right. You should not tilt the head right or left in order to find the right position that will fit your playing style. This will interfere with mastery of playing techniques and professionalism because it is unnatural. The violinist will fail to achieve his full potential.

Sound quality is easily affected by the manner of clipping the rest. The styles vary from one violinist to the other. Classical violinists did not use the caps. These caps were introduced later and had a transformational effect on flexibility and dexterity in play. They made fingering boards easier to access.

Caps are advisable for violinists with oily skins to protect the varnish from being eaten away. Comfort depends largely on personal preference. This means that each violinist has a different style and understanding of comfort.

Identifying the right cap and getting a perfect position requires time. Some violinists clip the rest on the left while others choose the center. It depends on individual style. A violinist should test the positions during practice with the guidance of an experienced instrumentalist. This will help him find the best position for each song or style of play.

A free left hand gives room for improvement of technical skills. The neck and jaw are not under pressure. This is necessary in mastering fingering skills. It makes the violinist a better player. The appearance of a bump on your neck should not cause any alarm since this does not change the features on your face.

The clipping of chin rests affects sound quality and production. Chin rest that reach the inner body affect the quality of vibrations which in turn reduces resonance and sound depth. This means that every violinist must be concerned at how the clipping is done. Caps are effective in adapting instruments depending on whether they are too big or small.

Chin rests are sometimes used to make violins fashionable. They come in colors and patterns that complement the instrument. One should be apprehensive of the balance and not bother too much with appearance. The quality of sound must be maintained.




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