Anyone shopping for a new violin is likely to notice that most include the chinrest as part of the cost of the instrument. A violin chinrest comes in many shapes and sizes and can greatly affect the way the instrument is played. If a violinist isn't happy with their current model, it can be easily switched for very little cost.
The chinrest is typically made from a small piece of wood or plastic and is attached to the instrument with several metal clamps. Although it is small in size, it is also an important component of the instrument. As is evident by its name, this piece is intended to hold a players chin in proper position. The concept originated a few hundred years ago and was intended to give players better control of their instrument.
While it may not be necessary for the instrument to function, it can contribute greatly to the sound a violin produces. However, this has more to do with how it improves a players control. In fact, there are some players who play without one. The idea is that it should help properly position a player's chin. Proper chin placement will provide stability, which can help the player have more control.
There are many different sizes and shapes to choose from. Some of these are quite small and a little flat, while some are much larger and form a cup shape. There are also many variations in angle, tilt, height and position.
Wood is the most common material used. Typically, the wood versions are made from boxwood, ebony or rosewood. However, there are newer types that may be made from hypoallergenic plastic or sometimes even gel. Felt or cork is often used to line the back so that the instrument is protected from any scratches or wear.
Many violinists find that they sometime get a rash or irritated skin on their chin or neck. This can be due to pressure caused by an ill-fitting chinrest. It could also be due to a reaction to the materials it's made from. If a player is having discomfort, they should consider trying a different shape or size. Some players find that using a cloth or padded slipcovers also eases their discomfort.
Because there are so many types of chinrests to choose from, it may be difficult to choose the best option. However, it is up to the individual player as each will have their own personal preference. Since comfort should be the main concern, it may be best to try out a few at a nearby shop. This is most important if a new player is having difficulty as they could be easily discouraged from sticking with their new instrument.
Any player who feels their violin chinrest may be causing them discomfort should consider trying out a new option. There are many different sizes, shapes and styles to choose from, so it may take some trial and error to find just the right one. However, it is probably well worth the effort, especially for beginning players who could easily get discouraged.
The chinrest is typically made from a small piece of wood or plastic and is attached to the instrument with several metal clamps. Although it is small in size, it is also an important component of the instrument. As is evident by its name, this piece is intended to hold a players chin in proper position. The concept originated a few hundred years ago and was intended to give players better control of their instrument.
While it may not be necessary for the instrument to function, it can contribute greatly to the sound a violin produces. However, this has more to do with how it improves a players control. In fact, there are some players who play without one. The idea is that it should help properly position a player's chin. Proper chin placement will provide stability, which can help the player have more control.
There are many different sizes and shapes to choose from. Some of these are quite small and a little flat, while some are much larger and form a cup shape. There are also many variations in angle, tilt, height and position.
Wood is the most common material used. Typically, the wood versions are made from boxwood, ebony or rosewood. However, there are newer types that may be made from hypoallergenic plastic or sometimes even gel. Felt or cork is often used to line the back so that the instrument is protected from any scratches or wear.
Many violinists find that they sometime get a rash or irritated skin on their chin or neck. This can be due to pressure caused by an ill-fitting chinrest. It could also be due to a reaction to the materials it's made from. If a player is having discomfort, they should consider trying a different shape or size. Some players find that using a cloth or padded slipcovers also eases their discomfort.
Because there are so many types of chinrests to choose from, it may be difficult to choose the best option. However, it is up to the individual player as each will have their own personal preference. Since comfort should be the main concern, it may be best to try out a few at a nearby shop. This is most important if a new player is having difficulty as they could be easily discouraged from sticking with their new instrument.
Any player who feels their violin chinrest may be causing them discomfort should consider trying out a new option. There are many different sizes, shapes and styles to choose from, so it may take some trial and error to find just the right one. However, it is probably well worth the effort, especially for beginning players who could easily get discouraged.
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