Best and most helpful video I have found on the Bon Musica which I have been using for some time without realising how many adjustments can be made. Thank you so much. I’m going to do some experimenting!
Oh my god, here comes you again to save me! I bought one of this and I was about to send it back because I thought ist not a 4/4 size. I could never fit my violin. Thanks once again!
Today is sep 26 and I'm watching this video for the first time. I've had a BM for a couple of years and hated it because I couldn't work out how to adjust it, so I've been using a Wolf Forte Secondo against my wishes since then. YESTERDAY I finally worked out how to adjust my BM (in addition to extending it to full length and adjusting the screws 2 years ago, I flattened that hook as much as possible - I like the extension backwards - the WFS is too short. Also the angle of the pivots is important) and now I love it. But it is not violin friendly. I believe the Pirastro Korfker comes with a training video, so this Red Desert video is necessary and not OTT at all.
Great timing, I just received mine yesterday and was struggling to get a good secure fit. Like you, I’m short (5’3”) with narrow shoulders that drop off so your advice was perfect! Straightened out the big shoulder hook, used the top 2 offset holes, followed your instructions and at last I have a comfortable, secure fit! Even my chin/jaw feels a lot better. Thank you!
Thank you so much, I am 69 yrs old, 4'9" and have had 5 shoulder surgeries (a lot of bone removed in shoulder), 2 neck ( short neck) and 12 back. I am very stiff and have tiny hands with short fingers. I bought a BonMusica and had no idea it could be adjusted so much. I can finally reach the G string easily! Love this rest. It feels great on my new Holstein bench violin.
Wow, so glad it works for you! It is so versatile I'm not surprised. I just met a guy who fabricated a cool sling that clips to his back pocket, over his shoulder, and then a bendable gizmo holds his violin for him. If you continue to struggle let me k ow and ill put u in touch with him. Good luck!
Your videos are consistently among the most useful out there, and this one is no exception. It's clear and easy to follow, with a lot of good information. Great job, and thank you!
Thank you very much. I watched all 3 videos and they were invaluable to get that rest to seat. You were the only one to address all the issues. Much appreciated!
I recently bought the Bon Musica Shoulder Rest and yesterday was the second day of trying it out and it felt so much better. I just need to adjust to this new contraption. Thanks for the informative videos. ❤
Great Rule you just mentioned.. Let the collarbone separate the jobs of the shoulder rest vs the chinrest! Brilliant! I think this is going to be very helpful for me as I try different configurations. Thanks for going through it all.
@@RedDesertViolin I will be delighted to "spread the word"! In my case I think I was trying to fill up all the space needed on my chest side, rather indiscriminately - by simply increasing the height of shoulder pad and chinrest everywhere. What is working right now is 1) that I have gone back to a previously used moderate chinrest, and 2) increased the chest area padding (rubber band with 1/2" red sponge) on a (not sure-- ) Mucco or Artino shoulder rest. I ALSO made a mark on the back of the instrument ( I know - sacrilidge) to place the feet of the shoulder pad just right. The placement of the shoulder rest is critical for me because I am a small-ish lady, and there is not a lot of room on my shoulder. I had been using a bon musica, but the rubber for the feet and the general padding is wearing out. The new Bon Musica I found difficult to adjust so it is low enough over my shoulder, without risk of damage to the back of the instrument because of the low height and flex. Also was difficult to position for security on the back of the instrument to place it so it is not going to fall off. You really did do a great job on this topic!
Hello and thank you so much for taking your time to make and post these videos. I had bought an electric violin that was heavier than anticipated. Previously I purchased another style of rest and it was a very nice piece but it didn't hook over the shoulder like the Bonmusica. So I thank you for the tips and clarification of the instructions. Robert
Hi Red Desert Violin. Great video! If you play around with the screws in the movable part (leaving them four holes apart) you'll find a perfect fit for a slanted conformation without the need to drill a new hole.
Hmmmm.Leon, I have looked for this configuration.....and I do not see the possibility. I will feel SO SILLY if you point it out and it's obvious. If you can describe it, or send a pic, or something, I'd be totally interested in what you are saying. (lora@reddesertviolin.com)
Very interesting and excellent review Laura. After nearly dropping my violin today, I have purchased the Bon Musica shoulder rest but I am using the kun upt o now which has been good for staying on the instrument but not in me. I am hoping the Bon Musica, will enable me to adjust it for more security, I am small 5 foot tall and knee high to a grass hopper with small hands and arms and play a half size violin with a 3/4 length bow. I am looking forward to my new shoulder rest and thank you for your FANTASTIC videos and your advice is second to none. All the best from the UK
This is so informative. I am having issues with the standard shoulder rests fitting properly and have just purchased the Bon Musica. Looking forward to your other videos.
Good luck with the Bon Musica, Amy. Most people love it, even if they move on later. I LOVE mine. (and if you ever decide to sell it, people will buy it. I looked for a LONG TIME for a used one....finally got a new one. )
thanks so much for this amazing video. My 10 yo niece is super talented but struggling with her shoulder rest. I just got her this one and now excited to work with all these adjustments. We are doing it all by Zoom which is also very challenging.
Hi Aces. This shoulder rest is a GREAT rest to start with. You can go "minimal" later. But the Bon Musica just makes it SO easy with the hook option, and it is so customizeable. Good luck. Zoom is VERY difficult to fuss with these things.....I have a 9 year old student struggling with the same thing right now....I finally drove up to her house and gave her a little masked lesson in the back yard. I made her put the violin on her shoulder 50 times in 30 minutes. She finally got it, but it's HARD!
I've had my bonmusica for 4 years and I found out YESTERDAY, you can remove one of the two screws and plastic nuts underneath and adjust the swivel of the 'plate' and tighten it with only one screw to any of the holes underneath it for an even better fit. It doesn't need the 2 screws to stay put.
I disagree with you! You are GREAT to start violin now! I call anyone who says "It's too late for me" a fool. You can get great pleasure and enjoyment out of learning this instrument. Please be patient with the violin AND with yourself for the first year. It's not like piano where our first notes sound okay. It takes 6 months before our first notes sound really pleasant. But IT IS WORTH THE EFFORT!
Just started violin at 48. And currently suffering with my wolf & fom shoulder rests. I just order a Bon Musica. I cant wait !!! I had forgotten about how awesome they are. I had one with my Viola that I started out playing 5 yrs ago. I actually quit playing Viola when trying to read the alto clef drove me batty so I switched to Cello.
Yes, the 3/4 refers to a 3/4 violin. (which means you could use a full size Bon Musica on a 3/4 violin just by using that little adjustment. How did you do that slick marker "19:25"?! It took me right to the spot in the video! LOL
Thank you. I decided not to buy it as it's too much metal and my kids are very reckless. Probably...wait till they learn how to cherish their instrument. Thank you for the great video. ❤️
I’ve played 45 years and suddenly feel uncomfortable all the time. Double chin? Suggestions? Anyway this shoulder rest is a bit overwhelming without the tips- thanks!!!
Beatrice, it is VERY IMPORTANT that you FIRST find a taller chin rest. They are easier and easier to find, but I love Gary Frisch at www.Chinrests.com It's important that you try to fill the gap from collarbone to jawbone with the CHINREST.....and then the shoulder rest is just for stability and a little extra support. It is NOT meant to lift your violin for a long neck. Let me know if you ahve other questions!
Yinfente Violin Shoulder Rest For 4/4 3/4 Violin Adjustable Height Rotated Angle This kind of shoudler rest is the same with bonmusica ??? I have problem with my neck ...i have big neck and chin so i order one ...but i dont know if is the same ....
The Yinfente is sort of a mix between the Wolf Primo shoulder rest and the Bon Musica. It is interesting! I had not heard of this model. It will definitely give you lots of height, and the "hook"....but it is not nearly as versatile as the Bon Musica. I hope it will work out for you. But please remember this: If you have a tall neck, you really need to explore TALL CHIN RESTS. They are readily available from www.chinrests.com. (you can also learn how to raise your own by watching youtube videos.....but they aren't as good) You really don't want to try to compensate for a long neck ONLY by getting a higher shoulder rest. So please explore high chin rests!
i can’t fit this on my viola! it’s not big enough and i’m pretty sure i got the right size. i bought a 15” and that’s my viola size! i don’t understand. :(
Hey Mary, gosh, I don't know what to tell you....except that you need to return the one you got, and make sure you order a VIOLA model. OH WAIT....you do realize it will expand in width by pulling it, right? and you can shrink it by pushing in, or even bending the feet.
Hi Itz Emily, Bon Musica shoulder rests can be purchased everywhere. Amazon, Ebay, plus most music stores, both brick and mortar stores, as well as online suppliers. Make sure you choose VIOLIN, and 4/4 size. (don't accidentally buy a viola or a smaller fractional size.....unless you intend to)
Interesting! I know another guy who has a "sling" he attaches to the shoulder end, and runs it down his back and clips it to his belt loop. WOW! Hey, whatever it takes to be comfortable.
Thanks! I played when i was younger and I never used one as they weren't comfy to me. Any suggestions? I would rather not spend a ton as I'm learning again but enough I can concentrate on other things. It's a full size, I'm 5'6, 125lb with round not drop off shoulder muscles, average neck and bony back. Ty!!!!
The main thing I'm paying attention to in your body type is the "round" shoulder. Everything else sounds like you could be pretty versatile. For round shoulders, you will need something that will "grip" and not slide off. A KUN could work for you. ($22) That's what I would start with, and just save your receipt. Most places will take them back, because they keep their shape. (see my video on Kuns) Good luck!
@@JuniperTreeee But I just read an earlier version of your comment, and you said "wide shoulders". That could change my answer. Kun still might work for you if you have an average neck, but if your shoulders are square and wide, then you might need a Bon Musica or a Wolf Secundo. But I would still try the Kun first.
Wow Dud Hack, sorry you hate the Bon Musica! I agree it is heavy and bulky. That's my main complaint. Hey, SELL YOUR BON MUSICA! I searched and searched to buy a used one on Ebay, and they always sold for a very high price.
Wow! You are the goddess of clarity and completeness. Fantastic teacher. Thank you!
Best and most helpful video I have found on the Bon Musica which I have been using for some time without realising how many adjustments can be made. Thank you so much. I’m going to do some experimenting!
Oh my god, here comes you again to save me! I bought one of this and I was about to send it back because I thought ist not a 4/4 size. I could never fit my violin. Thanks once again!
hooray!
Today is sep 26 and I'm watching this video for the first time. I've had a BM for a couple of years and hated it because I couldn't work out how to adjust it, so I've been using a Wolf Forte Secondo against my wishes since then. YESTERDAY I finally worked out how to adjust my BM (in addition to extending it to full length and adjusting the screws 2 years ago, I flattened that hook as much as possible - I like the extension backwards - the WFS is too short. Also the angle of the pivots is important) and now I love it. But it is not violin friendly.
I believe the Pirastro Korfker comes with a training video, so this Red Desert video is necessary and not OTT at all.
Great timing, I just received mine yesterday and was struggling to get a good secure fit. Like you, I’m short (5’3”) with narrow shoulders that drop off so your advice was perfect! Straightened out the big shoulder hook, used the top 2 offset holes, followed your instructions and at last I have a comfortable, secure fit! Even my chin/jaw feels a lot better. Thank you!
I am SO happy to know that! Thanks for the feedback!
Thank you so much, I am 69 yrs old, 4'9" and have had 5 shoulder surgeries (a lot of bone removed in shoulder), 2 neck ( short neck) and 12 back. I am very stiff and have tiny hands with short fingers. I bought a BonMusica and had no idea it could be adjusted so much. I can finally reach the G string easily! Love this rest. It feels great on my new Holstein bench violin.
Wow, so glad it works for you! It is so versatile I'm not surprised. I just met a guy who fabricated a cool sling that clips to his back pocket, over his shoulder, and then a bendable gizmo holds his violin for him. If you continue to struggle let me k ow and ill put u in touch with him. Good luck!
Your videos are consistently among the most useful out there, and this one is no exception. It's clear and easy to follow, with a lot of good information. Great job, and thank you!
Thank you very much for your kind words. Hoping your quest for a comfortable position will be a successful one!
Thank you so much for this! Mine is fitting perfect now!
Awesome! It's such a versatile model!
Thank you very much. I watched all 3 videos and they were invaluable to get that rest to seat. You were the only one to address all the issues. Much appreciated!
I'm glad to know you did not mind the LENGTH of the videos. I felt it was important to take however long was needed.
I recently bought the Bon Musica Shoulder Rest and yesterday was the second day of trying it out and it felt so much better. I just need to adjust to this new contraption. Thanks for the informative videos. ❤
Yes it can take awhile to dial it in, but it's worth the effort!
Thanks so much I think you are the leading expert on Bon Musica shoulder rest!
It's been my friend for many many years! Thanks for your comment.
Great Rule you just mentioned.. Let the collarbone separate the jobs of the shoulder rest vs the chinrest! Brilliant! I think this is going to be very helpful for me as I try different configurations. Thanks for going through it all.
YES....that is KEY: separation from chinrest and shoulder rest. I wish I had realized that sooner. Spread the word! ;-)
@@RedDesertViolin I will be delighted to "spread the word"! In my case I think I was trying to fill up all the space needed on my chest side, rather indiscriminately - by simply increasing the height of shoulder pad and chinrest everywhere. What is working right now is 1) that I have gone back to a previously used moderate chinrest, and 2) increased the chest area padding (rubber band with 1/2" red sponge) on a (not sure-- ) Mucco or Artino shoulder rest. I ALSO made a mark on the back of the instrument ( I know - sacrilidge) to place the feet of the shoulder pad just right. The placement of the shoulder rest is critical for me because I am a small-ish lady, and there is not a lot of room on my shoulder. I had been using a bon musica, but the rubber for the feet and the general padding is wearing out. The new Bon Musica I found difficult to adjust so it is low enough over my shoulder, without risk of damage to the back of the instrument because of the low height and flex. Also was difficult to position for security on the back of the instrument to place it so it is not going to fall off. You really did do a great job on this topic!
Excellently explained. Thanks
Thank you so much! These videos are incredibly helpful.
I'm SO glad. They are awfully long....but when people need help, they dont' seem to mind the length. Thanks for watching.
Hello and thank you so much for taking your time to make and post these videos. I had bought an electric violin that was heavier than anticipated. Previously I purchased another style of rest and it was a very nice piece but it didn't hook over the shoulder like the Bonmusica. So I thank you for the tips and clarification of the instructions. Robert
You are most welcome, Robert. Glad it helped. Electric violins can be VERY heavy!
Hi Red Desert Violin. Great video! If you play around with the screws in the movable part (leaving them four holes apart) you'll find a perfect fit for a slanted conformation without the need to drill a new hole.
Hmmmm.Leon, I have looked for this configuration.....and I do not see the possibility. I will feel SO SILLY if you point it out and it's obvious. If you can describe it, or send a pic, or something, I'd be totally interested in what you are saying. (lora@reddesertviolin.com)
Very interesting and excellent review Laura.
After nearly dropping my violin today, I have purchased the Bon Musica shoulder rest but I am using the kun upt o now which has been good for staying on the instrument but not in me.
I am hoping the Bon Musica, will enable me to adjust it for more security, I am small 5 foot tall and knee high to a grass hopper with small hands and arms and play a half size violin with a 3/4 length bow.
I am looking forward to my new shoulder rest and thank you for your FANTASTIC videos and your advice is second to none.
All the best from the UK
Your comment made me feel really good. I hope you'll enjoy the Bon Musica. Take care!
Hi. Great video. If you put a washcloth between your pliers and the shoulder rest, it won’t get marred when bending it.
Oh, the benefits of hindsight! I colored in the scratches with sharpie. :-(
Thank you so much for making this video!
This is so informative. I am having issues with the standard shoulder rests fitting properly and have just purchased the Bon Musica. Looking forward to your other videos.
Good luck with the Bon Musica, Amy. Most people love it, even if they move on later. I LOVE mine. (and if you ever decide to sell it, people will buy it. I looked for a LONG TIME for a used one....finally got a new one. )
thanks so much for this amazing video. My 10 yo niece is super talented but struggling with her shoulder rest. I just got her this one and now excited to work with all these adjustments. We are doing it all by Zoom which is also very challenging.
Hi Aces. This shoulder rest is a GREAT rest to start with. You can go "minimal" later. But the Bon Musica just makes it SO easy with the hook option, and it is so customizeable. Good luck. Zoom is VERY difficult to fuss with these things.....I have a 9 year old student struggling with the same thing right now....I finally drove up to her house and gave her a little masked lesson in the back yard. I made her put the violin on her shoulder 50 times in 30 minutes. She finally got it, but it's HARD!
I've had my bonmusica for 4 years and I found out YESTERDAY, you can remove one of the two screws and plastic nuts underneath and adjust the swivel of the 'plate' and tighten it with only one screw to any of the holes underneath it for an even better fit.
It doesn't need the 2 screws to stay put.
I took your advice, ordered the Bon Musica. Yes, finally something that fits. Beginner. 71 years old. Fool.
I disagree with you! You are GREAT to start violin now! I call anyone who says "It's too late for me" a fool. You can get great pleasure and enjoyment out of learning this instrument. Please be patient with the violin AND with yourself for the first year. It's not like piano where our first notes sound okay. It takes 6 months before our first notes sound really pleasant. But IT IS WORTH THE EFFORT!
I feel your pain lol but better late than never! 64 and about 2 month in; started to support my young kids who have just started violin. Viola FTW!!
Just started violin at 48. And currently suffering with my wolf & fom shoulder rests. I just order a Bon Musica. I cant wait !!! I had forgotten about how awesome they are. I had one with my Viola that I started out playing 5 yrs ago. I actually quit playing Viola when trying to read the alto clef drove me batty so I switched to Cello.
This was fantastic. Thank you!!
So glad you had the patience to watch it. I love detail!
Excellent critique thank you over and above any expectations I had of what your review would be so I'll give it a full 5 stars
Excellent video!
Thank you!
19:25 Small? 3/4. I think it does not refer to a 3/4 violin.
Yes, the 3/4 refers to a 3/4 violin. (which means you could use a full size Bon Musica on a 3/4 violin just by using that little adjustment.
How did you do that slick marker "19:25"?! It took me right to the spot in the video! LOL
@@RedDesertViolin Thank You!! You also made this slick marker at the refered point in the video. 19:25 just write it and it turns blue.
Thanks!
@@pedroberetche3180 OMG......it's.....MAGIC!!!!
Thank you. I decided not to buy it as it's too much metal and my kids are very reckless. Probably...wait till they learn how to cherish their instrument. Thank you for the great video. ❤️
Yes, a wise choice!
this is like the best intro of all time Noice!!!!
I hope it was helpful. thanks for watching.
Thank you!
I’ve played 45 years and suddenly feel uncomfortable all the time. Double chin? Suggestions? Anyway this shoulder rest is a bit overwhelming without the tips- thanks!!!
I have a very long neck and I’m looking for a shoulder rest that can help me to not curve… Do you think Bonmusica could be the good choice to me?
Beatrice, it is VERY IMPORTANT that you FIRST find a taller chin rest. They are easier and easier to find, but I love Gary Frisch at www.Chinrests.com
It's important that you try to fill the gap from collarbone to jawbone with the CHINREST.....and then the shoulder rest is just for stability and a little extra support. It is NOT meant to lift your violin for a long neck. Let me know if you ahve other questions!
Yinfente Violin Shoulder Rest For 4/4 3/4 Violin Adjustable Height Rotated Angle
This kind of shoudler rest is the same with bonmusica ???
I have problem with my neck
...i have big neck and chin so i order one ...but i dont know if is the same ....
The Yinfente is sort of a mix between the Wolf Primo shoulder rest and the Bon Musica. It is interesting! I had not heard of this model. It will definitely give you lots of height, and the "hook"....but it is not nearly as versatile as the Bon Musica. I hope it will work out for you. But please remember this: If you have a tall neck, you really need to explore TALL CHIN RESTS. They are readily available from www.chinrests.com. (you can also learn how to raise your own by watching youtube videos.....but they aren't as good) You really don't want to try to compensate for a long neck ONLY by getting a higher shoulder rest. So please explore high chin rests!
i can’t fit this on my viola! it’s not big enough and i’m pretty sure i got the right size. i bought a 15” and that’s my viola size! i don’t understand. :(
Hey Mary, gosh, I don't know what to tell you....except that you need to return the one you got, and make sure you order a VIOLA model.
OH WAIT....you do realize it will expand in width by pulling it, right? and you can shrink it by pushing in, or even bending the feet.
Where do you get it?
Hi Itz Emily, Bon Musica shoulder rests can be purchased everywhere. Amazon, Ebay, plus most music stores, both brick and mortar stores, as well as online suppliers. Make sure you choose VIOLIN, and 4/4 size. (don't accidentally buy a viola or a smaller fractional size.....unless you intend to)
yes
I have one. I hook the lower part into the neck of my T-shirt.
Interesting! I know another guy who has a "sling" he attaches to the shoulder end, and runs it down his back and clips it to his belt loop. WOW! Hey, whatever it takes to be comfortable.
I prefer golf style shirts that have a few buttons. Can adjust.
Thanks! I played when i was younger and I never used one as they weren't comfy to me.
Any suggestions? I would rather not spend a ton as I'm learning again but enough I can concentrate on other things. It's a full size, I'm 5'6, 125lb with round not drop off shoulder muscles, average neck and bony back. Ty!!!!
The main thing I'm paying attention to in your body type is the "round" shoulder. Everything else sounds like you could be pretty versatile. For round shoulders, you will need something that will "grip" and not slide off. A KUN could work for you. ($22) That's what I would start with, and just save your receipt. Most places will take them back, because they keep their shape. (see my video on Kuns) Good luck!
@@RedDesertViolin thank you!!
@@JuniperTreeee But I just read an earlier version of your comment, and you said "wide shoulders". That could change my answer. Kun still might work for you if you have an average neck, but if your shoulders are square and wide, then you might need a Bon Musica or a Wolf Secundo. But I would still try the Kun first.
@@RedDesertViolin kun sounds good. Ill try it first because I'm thin and I think from watching you other video that the others might be heavier.
Put a strip of leather or rubber between the pliers and the metal 🤓
EXCELLENT idea.
Bon Musica worst shoulder rest. Very heavy and clumsy. Waste of money. Video is great product crap.
Wow Dud Hack, sorry you hate the Bon Musica! I agree it is heavy and bulky. That's my main complaint. Hey, SELL YOUR BON MUSICA! I searched and searched to buy a used one on Ebay, and they always sold for a very high price.