subject: Violin Shoulder Rest - Pros And Cons Of Utilizing A Violin Shoulder Rest [print this page] Most beginning violin students today ought to begin utilizing a violin shoulder rest. However, before becoming too familiar with playing the instrument having a rest, the professionals and cons of utilizing one should be weighed. You will find both good and bad arguments to utilizing a shoulder rest, and these ought to be strongly considered prior to making a committed decision.
Violin shoulder rests affix to the back underside from the instruments and therefore are accustomed to increase the height to make positioning and playing more comfortable. They normally are designed to stick to the curvature of the shoulder and are padded for additional comfort.
The reasoning behind utilizing a violin shoulder rest is the fact that it keeps a student from needing to raise the shoulder or severely crook the neck to be able to securely contain the instrument while playing. Because the rest adds height towards the instrument, the shoulder can lie more enjoyable using the neck being only slightly tilted.
However, there are some negative reasons for using a violin shoulder rest. The tone of the instrument could be muffled by its use, dampening the violins true vibrations. Some shoulder rests can in fact decrease the instruments volume by up to one third.
Violin shoulder rests may also damage the instrument through excessive tension and friction, causing it to lose value. If you're playing, or thinking about playing, a costly instrument then this aspect should be taken into account.
Although a lot of modern violinists use shoulder rests, they are not necessarily utilized by all. Such violin greats as Anne-Sophie Mutter, Efrem Zimbalist, Nathan Milstein, Tibor Varga, Michael Rabin, and much more not used at all, or do not use, violin shoulder rests throughout their vibrant careers. Some discover that following within the footsteps of such violinist greats by using merely a thin sponge, a piece of cloth, or nothing at all is most effective.
Start out by playing your instrument without the shoulder rest. If you choose that it is too difficult and uncomfortable then try out various violin shoulder rests until you discover the exact fit which allows you to play freely, focused and unhindered. Besides, its all about the music!
