Saturday, November 9, 2013

The Different Violin Chinrest Styles

By Katrina Wheeler


All sorts of violin chinrest styles abound in today's market. However, they can usually be separated into two basic categories: the regular ones and the extended ones. The regular ones are basically mounted onto the instrument's side and do not go past its tailpiece, while the extended ones need to be mounded underneath the instrument and usually go past its tailpiece.

Either way, you will have a lot of choices in terms of materials, shapes and sizes, too. There are a lot of names for you to choose from, too, including Dresden, Flesch, Guarneri, Hill, Strad, Tekka and Wittner. You may find styles that can fit your jaw shape perfectly, as well, and styles that are more flat overall.

Generally speaking, there is no preferred model out there since people generally have different tastes. Since people aren't built in the same ways, either, what one violinist might find utterly comfortable might not be that comfortable for another. So, as long as you realize that your chinrest is no longer comfortable for you, it would be highly advisable to visit an instrument shop nearby and try out different ones for a change.

The best stores to visit for this are the ones with a wide range of products available. This way, there won't be a need for you to visit a lot of different stores for the trials. You'll just have to go to one and try all of the available models out there.

Whenever people try out a lot of chin rests yet still feel uncomfortable with them, they tend to find it helpful to add an extra layer of padding between their skin and that of the rest. The Strad-Pad, for example, is one of these protective layers and has a cushion known as a gel rest. This gel rest can be found all over the World Wide Web nowadays.

This cushion comes in different shapes, too. However, what really makes it stand out is the fact that it is made out of a hypoallergenic gel, which won't irritate the skin and which fits perfectly over the rest's wood as needed. If you have a tall neck, then you will be happy to hear that they also provide separate gel toppers to make violin-playing even more comfortable for you. These products usually have double layers for the utmost comfort.

Cushions are very beneficial, in general, when it comes to violins. First of all, they can reduce skin irritation. Second of all, they will ensure that your instrument won't slip from your chin as you play, no matter how hot it might get or how much you might sweat. Third of all, they will support your neck properly and give enough friction as needed. They are also more forgiving, in general, so they can provide you with more comfort than mere chinrests would.

Aside from evaluating violin chinrest styles, you shouldn't forget to evaluate shoulder rest styles, either. After all, both of these designs will play a big part in how safe, secure and comfortable your violin will actually be in the end.




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