Thank you so much I just bought one you recommended so now I know the proper way to add the shoulder rest. Today I am learning twinkle twinkle little star yeah you are a great teacher and I am 73 yrs old so excited to learn the violin it’s such a passionate instrument...have a blessed day
My shoulder rest was a pretty hopeless show, would fall each time I'd turn the violin down when finished playing... My teacher never advised anything better...and I used to pay her £30 for every single lesson.. so glad we have UA-cam now and such a helpful lovely teacher as Alison xx
It is important to know that if you bring your shoulder up, you might injure it. Also by pushing against the back board, you're taking away some of the sound. The correct way of playing without a shoulder rest is holding the violin with your hand slightly above your shoulder.
Lol!! I've apparently been using my shoulder rest upside down! That's probably why it always felt a teensy bit uncomfortable. :D Turned it around and adjusted it while watching your video, and it fits great, even with a centered chin rest. Thanks so much!!!
I just bought a cheap violin (I'm a guitarist and I thought I'd give it a shot). Wouldn't have known what the shoulder rest was if it didn't have it printed on it. I really like the flame on the back of yours.
Baron von Quiply I bought a cheap one too and it really is harder to play than my mock strad. I keep hitting 2 strings at the same time and the sound is 'tinny'. If you can manage a few tunes on your cheap one i would advise buying a nice weighty bow and expensive strings to make it a bit better sounding and playing,,,if you still love it treat yourself to pricier version. Have fun playing Alison is brilliant.
Alison you are God sent. Your a very beautiful and caring young woman. I think it’s so kind of you too help people that want to learn to play the violin 🎻 absolutely love your videos and thank you for sharing your time. I just turned 70 in May and I’m a great grandmother and always have wanted to play an instrument and I have always loved the violin 🎻 I received my Cecilio 300 CVN and just got my Dont Fret yesterday and I’m so excited to get started. God Bless and Thank you again Alison🙏🏽♥️🎻♥️
Brenda Brown Brenda, I love hearing when adults are beginners at violin, you and I are in the same canoe, I’m in my 40s and am getting more into learning my little violin, I always practice with a mute on it and am not brave enough yet to remove it 😂 I love Alisons videos too she is an inspiration. I wish you loads of luck and enjoyment from your playing xx
BEST violin teacher on the interweb! She breaks down all the details.. and if you don't want to hear them, you are doing yourself a disservice. I am going to buy new strings, new Rosin and a new bow today. I will just have to deal with the fact that my un-used tip joint of my finger will need a lot of practice regardless of how many years I've been playing music (especially guitar)... buy hey, what would life be without "learning experience" (which is applicable to ANY endeavor in life?) ... I will practice without the violin 24/7 on just this technique alone (thumb to tip, thumb to fleshy part of first joint in second finger. It is what it is. This is why learning an instrument isn't for everyone. It requires patience, and I just blasted this teacher for the very thing I need most. Again, my apologies. You rock!
When I first played violin I just couldnt work well on posture until a friend of my father who happens to be a great musician told me I will require a shoulder rest due to the length of my neck.
P.S "IF" you happen to lose or damage those rubbery bits, the tips of those plastic ends of the shoulder rest can leave scratches on the edges of your violin. learned that the hard way! If you damage the rubbery bit, you replace it a.s.a.p!
A lot of Comments, so my apologies if I missed what I'm about to write. I would like to add two points to this excellent video. #1, I think this needs to be viewed in context with one of her Vibrato vids - even if you're not ready for vibrato - to see how she uses the thumb of her left hand. #2, note how the violin usually sits on her skin. The garments we males wear don't allow this, and that violin back is very slippery on cloth. I use a rubber band on the back - just like @12 minutes in the vid - but all by itself, with nothing stuck under it. It's not for shoulder support, but to prevent "slippage" on my shirt.
Every teacher and book has alway stated, don't bring up your shoulder, if you do tension will take over your playing. But, I've learned nothing is in concrete. Some of the best fiddlers play with the violin in all positions and left hand all bent. Your way makes a lot of sense to me. Love your lessons, thanks
Just bought a shoulder rest after years of not having one as I have noticed I am holding my violin at the wrong angle. After using a towel I have realised it helps. I bought the one in the link, which saved me wondering which one to get, so thanks for the info!!
In my first week I've not got very far because I found it impossible to keep the violin anywhere near close to the 10'O'Clock position, it would always slide round to the front and drop down or I'd hurt my jaw bone because of the amount of pressure I was using in my attempt to keep the violin body in place. I was practically bringing my shoulder up to my ear, and there was no way I could remove my left hand the way Alison does as my violin would fall immediately! I had tried the cloth trick and this made it easier but it didn't feel high enough, and when I used a thicker cloth it began to topple or I'd squash the cloth, but at least it showed a shoulder rest was worth looking into. I ordered the cheapest shoulder rest I could find, and after some tweaking where I adjusted the height as well as the location on the violin body, and with the width adjustment, I found the best position I'm likely to achieve, and am happy to say there is a massive improvement! I can now securely hold the violin between my chin and shoulder with just a slight amount of pressure (nowhere near like I needed to use before), I can even talk and the violin doesn't even flinch, it feels nice and for a cheap rest, quite secure. My left hand is now free from supporting the neck so I can play notes much better and continue with Alison's lessons. The shoulder rest has been a great incentive to continue.
Just wanted to say how great your videos are. You have a way of making it come across natural and not over technical, but still with plenty of information to take in 👍
I'm gonna give a shoulder rest a shot. I haven't used one before, but my fiddle is killing my collar bone. Let's see what happens. Thank you for the video, very informative, and beautiful blue eyes!
I recently had a teacher have me use a folded piece of drawer liner like she used the cloth, and it has changed the way I hold my violin so much! My posture is so much better. I don't want to go back to using the shoulder rest.
Alison, Great video! I appreciate the lessons. Here in a couple weeks, I will have boughten a Cecilio CVN 300. I am a singer, guitarist, pianist, and music producer. I am really excited to start learning the violin! Thank you. - Dylan Ledford
Most of the ones I’ve found have larger arches, and a reversed arch on the non-chin/shoulder side, and so you really do want to get it right, that said, I’ve had great luck with the one-pieced grips (like the one on the smaller one she was showing) which have served me quite well (you just have to replace the feet (the grip part that makes contact) every once in a while.
Using of shoulder rest will improve the tonal quantity of the violin. Also it gives a comfort to hold the violin..I am comfortable with the shoulder rest. Thank You very much for your analysis on shoulder rest.
Thank you for your presentation. I liked the plastic clamp chin rest, I think I will purchase one. As a beginner, one needs all the help one can get, and the greater focus needs be on actually playing the viola. So again, thanks. Linda S.
I used to use a pad, then a cloth as a child, but when I started to play the 3/4 again 50 years later, I found it more comfortable with the full size as well without a shoulder rest. However, I did buy a Wolf one for my viola which is full size 16 inches and I only have short arms. I haven't put it on yet because I hadn't a clue, so thanks very much for the clear instructions. I can try it now, but I suspect I'll be better without it.
yes, thats very true. I can clearly move my arm and shoulder even though i bring it up - lots of famous violinists do too, you just either dont see them do it, or they dont advertise it. Its only because im explaining it in detail on a video here!
Thank you for this enlightening series. I took violin lessons as a child, but abandoned it after many years of struggling. It was awkward and painful to try to hold the violin properly, and I had to actually support the violin with my left hand, which needless to say was detrimental to my progress. After more than 50 years, I had the violin (which had been my father's) restored, and also purchased a shoulder rest. That made all the difference in the world. I can now hold the violin more properly, painlessly, without having to support it with my left hand! If I had such a shoulder rest as a child, I would probably have been playing all these years.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, victorsj88. It mirrors mine exactly, including the 50-year hiatus and the liberating experience of a shoulder rest.
Its totally down to the individual and I do stress that. If its more comfortable with, then use one and vise verse. It really does not matter either way as long as there is no tension caused.
Very helpful! I'm waiting for a shoulder rest for my (very heavy) fiddle, but until it comes, your rubber band/cloth method looks brilliant. Thanks for your brilliant videos. You are honest and very informative. Cheers!
The one im talking about the video is different to the one you mention as mine has no swivel lock. Personally im not that keen on that version as it keeps falling off. The design of the Wolfe is so that there doesnt need to be any bending at all and further bending a) defeats the purpose and b) misshapes the device therefore causing instability against the violin.
8:22 it doesn't matter which end is up. I've been playing with mine upside down for years! Why? I like the wider portion on my chest. I have wide shoulders and large pectorals and it just supports better, firmer, and tighter that way (at least that is what the feedback from the instrument is telling me).
I bought the Wolf Primo should rest and just tried to use it today. I put it on backwards(LOL). Thank you for explaining in detail why to use and how to use one.
its up to you. I dont because a) i dont use one full stop, and b) i think my elec violin is comfortable enough as it is. Its totally your preference and i couldnt say for you. If its a heavy electric violin, then you may need something.
I have been playing violin for four years with no shoulder rest.. Just today I bought everest and the notes sounds lot clear and loud.. I can totally tell the difference :-)
Thanks so much for such great explaination.......really helpful I had lots of problem with the shoulder rest but now u've solved it.....thanks once again
While I respect each individual's playing techniques and preferences, as a trainee chiropractor and violinist, I really would advise against not using a shoulder rest for anyone learning to play the violin. You're going to end up with major muscle imbalances between your left and right side which could lead to musculoskeletal problems and possibly severe pain down the line. The reason for this is that by bringing up one shoulder and holding it there repeatedly for an extended period of time you're essentially 'working out' and strengthening one side and not balancing this out on the opposite side. Please be careful and take this into account when making your decision 💖
I know this is old. But I hope you figured out the modifications possible on the Bon Musica. It takes some research and a few well measured bends to get the chest contact points perfect. But it’s glorious when you get it right!
hmm, im not sure what to suggest really, you could try folding a cloth and attaching an elastic band to the violin (its harmless to the violin) like i may have shown in the video?
yes, Woodbridge Violins. Its German and about 250yrs old...the rest is a mystery im afraid as there isnt a label and no-one knows who, where,what, why and how im afraid which is a shame as I do wonder who has played it before me all those years ago...!
I just found out the wolf forte secondo shoulder rest can be bent to mould to the shape of your shoulder, I’m sure a lot of the other quality ones can too. I didn’t know before, and would’ve been scared to try after spending almost £30 on it but it’s made so much difference. - Magic posture violin by animato strings
not for me - I have been playing for about 26 years and never had a sore shoulder. The violin does not move so why would it get sore? I also play for 3hrs straight for wedding and corporate events and....still now sore shoulder. Sorry
I've ordered a rest as I'm getting a lot of pain on my collar bone from trying to grip it. I'm unable to use my left hand properly due to being unable to keep my violin secure. I really hope it helps me and im not just a lost cause.
I got the type of shoulder rest with my outfit that has the screw system you mentioned and found out right away that it's really awkward. I keep having to readjust it and it doesn't seem to want to stay put. I like the one you use in this video, it makes the most sense in the way it works and attaches to the violin. Trying the shoulder rest I have still felt really comfortable for me. I came looking for a video to see if I was doing anything wrong but looks like I'm not, it's just circumstances. I'll likely invest in a Wolfe Forte that you linked to, it seems like a worthy investment and it's not that pricey
Hi, Super teacher My shoulder rest falls off if I put it where is does the most good, but in a few minutes the shoulder rest falls off, if I put i it where is secure, then i have a large gap, and the violin is to lose. Oh, well keep at it, unless you have any suggestions. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent. Keith Arnold Cedar City, Utah.
First, I didn't know they existed. Then, thought they were an absolute necessity. Now, just trying to find that "sweet spot", if it be With or Without one. But this video was very helpful...so thank you.
Tysm I just started violin ( 2 years late) and I at first played with no rest and then I forgot my Inst. And so I used my orch. Teachers and there was a shoulder rest on his and it just worked way better for me so I just got one for my violin and this helped a lot so yeah tysm
For years I played blue grass with the chin rest in my ribs. Yeah! Right? A violinist would cringe. In the 60s I had a useless pad. I had to relearn with the rubbery bits type. It must be the right hight. My left hand is now liberated in movement to total fingerboard. But the rests must fit correctly. Its comfortable now.
Thanks for the useful info! My problem with the shoulder rest ( it came with my violin) is that the case won't close if I leave it on the violin. I guess that's means taking it off and putting it back on every time! I notice this is an older post so hope it's still ok to comment.
Yes you will have to remove it if you put the violin back in it’s case every time - unless you have your violin out on a stand ready to play as I do as it’s a pain putting it away in a case all the time.
Hey. I had your video in my computer for about a year and I struggled so much on my Kun shoulder rest, thought mine is bad and i need that one; and just today I discovered i was wrongly setting it when i again watched ur video. I used to keep the setting to keep violin position like everyones who dont use a shouldr rest, unlike the setting that gives the "right angle thing" and violin tilted. How stupid was I! Hopefully now i will play better, comfortably; its most important. Thanks
This has been a very helpful video. I am nearly done with Suzuki BK 1 and stating to learn vibrato and found that I have been griping the end of the neck with my thumb and base of the index finger. I am using the Everest should rest. I like the info. you gave on not-using a shoulder rest. Am experimenting now so not sure what way I will go. Appears you use a modified amount of supporting the violin with the left hand thumb somewhat-appears most non-shoulder rest people do that. Thank you for the info.
That smile on 14:00 +/- I don't know why but it made me so happy :') more than I was before, I like the idea of the cloth under the violin I'm preparing myself to buy "meh first violin" so yeah :L Awesome channel by the by :)
I like without, but my teachers yelled at me for not using one. The best one I ever had was an Everest Shoulder rest, very comfy, very soft. I think the reason most people make students start on shoulder rests is because you might not have the muscles to hold the violin properly. Shoulder rests are kind of like training wheels I think. Not that I think less of people for using them, it’s just whatever is most comfy
None of my students have ever used a shoulder rest - I just make sure I teach them properly and learn to hold the violin correctly. Its a very personal thing and I find them very restricting with movement and posture.
Thanks for this video ... if I had seen it sooner I would not have bought the rest. One came ... nice rosewood ... one bent mount but regardless once it was on it just seemed to get in the way and act like a boat anchor. Felt like arm braces. I like your approach much better. No restraining rest. Fly free violin!
This is where we differ as my violin is worth a lot of money, but putting a shoulder rest or anything attaching itself to the body, reduces the tone and makes it a little more nasil-like.
Thank you...following you a little now...I found a video on how to put a shoulder rest..(in the shorts list)....it was 23 seconds and I undertood. Sorry
You’ve just gifted me such a phenomenal idea-“Using my mum’s handmade tea towels as a folksy shoulder rest that’s held down with a simple recycled newspaper elastic band!” One of the most practical/useful and very best violin life hacks I’d wish I had come across so much sooner. Well done darling, I have some of the nicest ones my mum’s sewn up and just sent me too ^_~ Please dm me so I could have the pleasure of paying this one forward please!!!
I simply have a sponge attached with a rubber band as a shoulder rest. Would a more expensive one like shown in the video effect anything? It feels crowded with it, but it tends to hurt after a long time without one.
I just got my violin last night. It is for 3/4 and 4/4 violin, as said in the back of it, but I think it doesn't fit my 4/4 violin. I already adjusted it by unscrewing. Should I buy another shoulder rest, or I didn't completely adjusted it?
I used to wear a shoulder rest along time ago when I was younger, but i kept it set so low to the violin anyway, that after it actually broke, I ditched it and got used to playing without. I then got a center mounted chin rest which really helped maintaim better control and keep the violin more comfortable. I cant remeber the last time I used a should rest.
This might come off as a dumb question but I can't seem to find ANY clear information on it and I'm pretty new at this so here it is; Are all shoulder rests adjustable in height? Can you sort of "force" them to fit by adjusting it? I know some can but can they all?
5:00 I'd say you're rather a rare individual who can hold it like that without any long term issues with the shoulder and/or neck pain. Ideally you shouldn't move anything, just put your head down to the left and have straight posture. I'd say for new players 99% chance you need a shoulder rest if you have proper violin hold. You also learned violin and slowly moved to play without shoulder rest with cloth first, and etc. So yeah, for any newbie watching this - 99% you need shoulder rest.
10 years later, and this video is helping me on day two of having a violin. Thank you!
Same here
Thank you so much I just bought one you recommended so now I know the proper way to add the shoulder rest. Today I am learning twinkle twinkle little star yeah you are a great teacher and I am 73 yrs old so excited to learn the violin it’s such a passionate instrument...have a blessed day
My shoulder rest was a pretty hopeless show, would fall each time I'd turn the violin down when finished playing... My teacher never advised anything better...and I used to pay her £30 for every single lesson.. so glad we have UA-cam now and such a helpful lovely teacher as Alison xx
Use more hand and dont press hard. Ur tensing. Just stsy relaxed and focus on ur hand.
It is important to know that if you bring your shoulder up, you might injure it. Also by pushing against the back board, you're taking away some of the sound. The correct way of playing without a shoulder rest is holding the violin with your hand slightly above your shoulder.
Lol!! I've apparently been using my shoulder rest upside down! That's probably why it always felt a teensy bit uncomfortable. :D Turned it around and adjusted it while watching your video, and it fits great, even with a centered chin rest. Thanks so much!!!
ahahaha same here. I'm like, "what a relief" :)
I just bought a cheap violin (I'm a guitarist and I thought I'd give it a shot). Wouldn't have known what the shoulder rest was if it didn't have it printed on it.
I really like the flame on the back of yours.
Baron von Quiply I bought a cheap one too and it really is harder to play than my mock strad. I keep hitting 2 strings at the same time and the sound is 'tinny'. If you can manage a few tunes on your cheap one i would advise buying a nice weighty bow and expensive strings to make it a bit better sounding and playing,,,if you still love it treat yourself to pricier version. Have fun playing Alison is brilliant.
My first attempt at doing the right posture: ouch this hurts :’)) so I came here
Alison you are God sent. Your a very beautiful and caring young woman. I think it’s so kind of you too help people that want to learn to play the violin 🎻 absolutely love your videos and thank you for sharing your time. I just turned 70 in May and I’m a great grandmother and always have wanted to play an instrument and I have always loved the violin 🎻 I received my Cecilio 300 CVN and just got my Dont Fret yesterday and I’m so excited to get started. God Bless and Thank you again Alison🙏🏽♥️🎻♥️
Brenda Brown Brenda, I love hearing when adults are beginners at violin, you and I are in the same canoe, I’m in my 40s and am getting more into learning my little violin, I always practice with a mute on it and am not brave enough yet to remove it 😂 I love Alisons videos too she is an inspiration. I wish you loads of luck and enjoyment from your playing xx
BEST violin teacher on the interweb! She breaks down all the details.. and if you don't want to hear them, you are doing yourself a disservice. I am going to buy new strings, new Rosin and a new bow today. I will just have to deal with the fact that my un-used tip joint of my finger will need a lot of practice regardless of how many years I've been playing music (especially guitar)... buy hey, what would life be without "learning experience" (which is applicable to ANY endeavor in life?) ... I will practice without the violin 24/7 on just this technique alone (thumb to tip, thumb to fleshy part of first joint in second finger. It is what it is. This is why learning an instrument isn't for everyone. It requires patience, and I just blasted this teacher for the very thing I need most. Again, my apologies. You rock!
If you're a skinny giraffe-person like me, you'll probably want a shoulder rest.
hey thats me though I dont have a shoulderrest
Same 🤣. My neck is too long to go without
Some don't need cuz he or she is immune of the pain like me
When I first played violin I just couldnt work well on posture until a friend of my father who happens to be a great musician told me I will require a shoulder rest due to the length of my neck.
That’s me.
P.S "IF" you happen to lose or damage those rubbery bits, the tips of those plastic ends of the shoulder rest can leave scratches on the edges of your violin.
learned that the hard way! If you damage the rubbery bit,
you replace it a.s.a.p!
I had a cheap one with rubber bits on my violin and it chipped off parts of the wood so even if they're on, be careful with getting a cheap one.
Thank you!!! 🙏
I think the Wolf even comes with extra rubbers.
@@ankavoskuilen1725 I laughed, because apparently I'm still twelve.
A lot of Comments, so my apologies if I missed what I'm about to write. I would like to add two points to this excellent video. #1, I think this needs to be viewed in context with one of her Vibrato vids - even if you're not ready for vibrato - to see how she uses the thumb of her left hand. #2, note how the violin usually sits on her skin. The garments we males wear don't allow this, and that violin back is very slippery on cloth. I use a rubber band on the back - just like @12 minutes in the vid - but all by itself, with nothing stuck under it. It's not for shoulder support, but to prevent "slippage" on my shirt.
Every teacher and book has alway stated, don't bring up your shoulder, if you do tension will take over your playing. But, I've learned nothing is in concrete. Some of the best fiddlers play with the violin in all positions and left hand all bent. Your way makes a lot of sense to me. Love your lessons, thanks
Just bought a shoulder rest after years of not having one as I have noticed I am holding my violin at the wrong angle. After using a towel I have realised it helps. I bought the one in the link, which saved me wondering which one to get, so thanks for the info!!
i have a video addressing left handers coming soon...
I have wanted to play the violin since I was 6 years old. This is now many decades later. Your video was an enormous help. Thank you.
In my first week I've not got very far because I found it impossible to keep the violin anywhere near close to the 10'O'Clock position, it would always slide round to the front and drop down or I'd hurt my jaw bone because of the amount of pressure I was using in my attempt to keep the violin body in place. I was practically bringing my shoulder up to my ear, and there was no way I could remove my left hand the way Alison does as my violin would fall immediately!
I had tried the cloth trick and this made it easier but it didn't feel high enough, and when I used a thicker cloth it began to topple or I'd squash the cloth, but at least it showed a shoulder rest was worth looking into.
I ordered the cheapest shoulder rest I could find, and after some tweaking where I adjusted the height as well as the location on the violin body, and with the width adjustment, I found the best position I'm likely to achieve, and am happy to say there is a massive improvement!
I can now securely hold the violin between my chin and shoulder with just a slight amount of pressure (nowhere near like I needed to use before), I can even talk and the violin doesn't even flinch, it feels nice and for a cheap rest, quite secure. My left hand is now free from supporting the neck so I can play notes much better and continue with Alison's lessons. The shoulder rest has been a great incentive to continue.
Thanks, because of this "review" I can confirm the purpose of a shoulder rest and buy one soon. :D :D :D
maffysdad damn you took a lot of time to explain your problem
Just recently got a violin and learning thru this online teacher! She’s a savior and my new bestfriend in ytube now! lol! Thank you!
I just figured something out. The violin emoji bow is way to tight. Look 🎻
Just wanted to say how great your videos are. You have a way of making it come across natural and not over technical, but still with plenty of information to take in 👍
I'm gonna give a shoulder rest a shot. I haven't used one before, but my fiddle is killing my collar bone. Let's see what happens. Thank you for the video, very informative, and beautiful blue eyes!
I recently had a teacher have me use a folded piece of drawer liner like she used the cloth, and it has changed the way I hold my violin so much! My posture is so much better. I don't want to go back to using the shoulder rest.
That's what I'm trying to decide With or Without, now that I know they aren't "mandatory" so to speak.
Alison, Great video! I appreciate the lessons. Here in a couple weeks, I will have boughten a Cecilio CVN 300. I am a singer, guitarist, pianist, and music producer. I am really excited to start learning the violin! Thank you. - Dylan Ledford
Most of the ones I’ve found have larger arches, and a reversed arch on the non-chin/shoulder side, and so you really do want to get it right, that said, I’ve had great luck with the one-pieced grips (like the one on the smaller one she was showing) which have served me quite well (you just have to replace the feet (the grip part that makes contact) every once in a while.
Using of shoulder rest will improve the tonal quantity of the violin. Also it gives a comfort to hold the violin..I am comfortable with the shoulder rest. Thank You very much for your analysis on shoulder rest.
Like if you love violins! 🎻🎻🎻
Twosetviolin be like, if you do not like this comment you are a violist
Thank you for your presentation. I liked the plastic clamp chin rest, I think I will purchase one.
As a beginner, one needs all the help one can get, and the greater focus needs be on actually playing the viola. So again,
thanks. Linda S.
I used to use a pad, then a cloth as a child, but when I started to play the 3/4 again 50 years later, I found it more comfortable with the full size as well without a shoulder rest. However, I did buy a Wolf one for my viola which is full size 16 inches and I only have short arms. I haven't put it on yet because I hadn't a clue, so thanks very much for the clear instructions. I can try it now, but I suspect I'll be better without it.
yes, thats very true. I can clearly move my arm and shoulder even though i bring it up - lots of famous violinists do too, you just either dont see them do it, or they dont advertise it. Its only because im explaining it in detail on a video here!
Thank you for this enlightening series. I took violin lessons as a child, but abandoned it after many years of struggling. It was awkward and painful to try to hold the violin properly, and I had to actually support the violin with my left hand, which needless to say was detrimental to my progress. After more than 50 years, I had the violin (which had been my father's) restored, and also purchased a shoulder rest. That made all the difference in the world. I can now hold the violin more properly, painlessly, without having to support it with my left hand! If I had such a shoulder rest as a child, I would probably have been playing all these years.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, victorsj88. It mirrors mine exactly, including the 50-year hiatus and the liberating experience of a shoulder rest.
kun shoulder rest is actually one of the best , I have one my self . The only negative thing is that it's quite expensive .
yuki kinomoto I just got one so hopefully it works for me!
Its totally down to the individual and I do stress that. If its more comfortable with, then use one and vise verse.
It really does not matter either way as long as there is no tension caused.
8:25 my shoulder rest has a much more exaggerated curve so I need yo put it right but I got used to it
Very helpful! I'm waiting for a shoulder rest for my (very heavy) fiddle, but until it comes, your rubber band/cloth method looks brilliant. Thanks for your brilliant videos. You are honest and very informative. Cheers!
The one im talking about the video is different to the one you mention as mine has no swivel lock. Personally im not that keen on that version as it keeps falling off. The design of the Wolfe is so that there doesnt need to be any bending at all and further bending a) defeats the purpose and b) misshapes the device therefore causing instability against the violin.
Wy from Canada, thank you I have enjoyed your lessons, don't read, self taught but you have corrected some of my misgivings.
8:22 it doesn't matter which end is up. I've been playing with mine upside down for years! Why? I like the wider portion on my chest. I have wide shoulders and large pectorals and it just supports better, firmer, and tighter that way (at least that is what the feedback from the instrument is telling me).
thts why its called shoulder REST
its really tired without it
I bought the Wolf Primo should rest and just tried to use it today. I put it on backwards(LOL). Thank you for explaining in detail why to use and how to use one.
its up to you. I dont because a) i dont use one full stop, and b) i think my elec violin is comfortable enough as it is. Its totally your preference and i couldnt say for you. If its a heavy electric violin, then you may need something.
@The Online Piano and Violin Tutor How do you do vibrato without a shoulder rest?
The exact same as with one. There is no difference as vibrato has nothing to do with shoulder rests.
Oh, but I find that I cannot make space between my hand the neck so I can vibrate, my hand just wants to balance the violin. You do it with such ease!
you could try using a cloth to help?
I have been playing violin for four years with no shoulder rest.. Just today I bought everest and the notes sounds lot clear and loud.. I can totally tell the difference :-)
Thanks so much for such great explaination.......really helpful I had lots of problem with the shoulder rest but now u've solved it.....thanks once again
While I respect each individual's playing techniques and preferences, as a trainee chiropractor and violinist, I really would advise against not using a shoulder rest for anyone learning to play the violin.
You're going to end up with major muscle imbalances between your left and right side which could lead to musculoskeletal problems and possibly severe pain down the line.
The reason for this is that by bringing up one shoulder and holding it there repeatedly for an extended period of time you're essentially 'working out' and strengthening one side and not balancing this out on the opposite side.
Please be careful and take this into account when making your decision 💖
Good point , wouldn’t it be an imbalance even without the rest as you are playing it on one side all the time?
Amazing how you grip without a rest. I do what you say but still slips out and would fall. Tried Bonmusica but too stiff and restrictive
I know this is old. But I hope you figured out the modifications possible on the Bon Musica. It takes some research and a few well measured bends to get the chest contact points perfect. But it’s glorious when you get it right!
It hurts me when I do not use it and it pained me for days before I got a shoulder rest
hmm, im not sure what to suggest really, you could try folding a cloth and attaching an elastic band to the violin (its harmless to the violin) like i may have shown in the video?
Nice suggestion of using cloth instead of shoulder rest. That itself is worth watching this vid.
yes, Woodbridge Violins. Its German and about 250yrs old...the rest is a mystery im afraid as there isnt a label and no-one knows who, where,what, why and how im afraid which is a shame as I do wonder who has played it before me all those years ago...!
Thanks for this! Almost canceled my first lesson today because I broke my shoulder rest last night, but now I know it's fine!
I just found out the wolf forte secondo shoulder rest can be bent to mould to the shape of your shoulder, I’m sure a lot of the other quality ones can too. I didn’t know before, and would’ve been scared to try after spending almost £30 on it but it’s made so much difference. - Magic posture violin by animato strings
not for me - I have been playing for about 26 years and never had a sore shoulder. The violin does not move so why would it get sore? I also play for 3hrs straight for wedding and corporate events and....still now sore shoulder. Sorry
I've ordered a rest as I'm getting a lot of pain on my collar bone from trying to grip it. I'm unable to use my left hand properly due to being unable to keep my violin secure. I really hope it helps me and im not just a lost cause.
some shoulder rests can be adjusted to suit your neck. Can you do that on yours?
I got the type of shoulder rest with my outfit that has the screw system you mentioned and found out right away that it's really awkward. I keep having to readjust it and it doesn't seem to want to stay put. I like the one you use in this video, it makes the most sense in the way it works and attaches to the violin. Trying the shoulder rest I have still felt really comfortable for me. I came looking for a video to see if I was doing anything wrong but looks like I'm not, it's just circumstances. I'll likely invest in a Wolfe Forte that you linked to, it seems like a worthy investment and it's not that pricey
Hi, Super teacher
My shoulder rest falls off if I put it where is does the most good, but in a few minutes the shoulder rest falls off, if I put i
it where is secure, then i have a large gap, and the violin is to lose. Oh, well keep at it, unless you have any suggestions. Thank you for sharing your wonderful talent. Keith Arnold Cedar City, Utah.
First, I didn't know they existed. Then, thought they were an absolute necessity. Now, just trying to find that "sweet spot", if it be With or Without one. But this video was very helpful...so thank you.
Excellent teaching with live demonstration.So kind of You.Mme.
Great video, my shoulder rest problems have been sorted.
Tysm I just started violin ( 2 years late) and I at first played with no rest and then I forgot my Inst. And so I used my orch. Teachers and there was a shoulder rest on his and it just worked way better for me so I just got one for my violin and this helped a lot so yeah tysm
Just got mine!!Totally Luv-it!!
For years I played blue grass with the chin rest in my ribs. Yeah! Right? A violinist would cringe.
In the 60s I had a useless pad. I had to relearn with the rubbery bits type. It must be the right hight. My left hand is now liberated in movement to total fingerboard. But the rests must fit correctly. Its comfortable now.
Thanks for the useful info! My problem with the shoulder rest ( it came with my violin) is that the case won't close if I leave it on the violin. I guess that's means taking it off and putting it back on every time! I notice this is an older post so hope it's still ok to comment.
Yes you will have to remove it if you put the violin back in it’s case every time - unless you have your violin out on a stand ready to play as I do as it’s a pain putting it away in a case all the time.
Hey. I had your video in my computer for about a year and I struggled so much on my Kun shoulder rest, thought mine is bad and i need that one; and just today I discovered i was wrongly setting it when i again watched ur video. I used to keep the setting to keep violin position like everyones who dont use a shouldr rest, unlike the setting that gives the "right angle thing" and violin tilted. How stupid was I! Hopefully now i will play better, comfortably; its most important. Thanks
This has been a very helpful video. I am nearly done with Suzuki BK 1 and stating to learn vibrato and found that I have been griping the end of the neck with my thumb and base of the index finger. I am using the Everest should rest. I like the info. you gave on not-using a shoulder rest. Am experimenting now so not sure what way I will go. Appears you use a modified amount of supporting the violin with the left hand thumb somewhat-appears most non-shoulder rest people do that. Thank you for the info.
where?
Very very helpful video! Thank you! 🙂
I honestly couldnt say as it all depends on whats comfortable for you so you have to experiment really to see what works for you.
Thank you my teacher! 🌈
the one and only reason I use a shoulder rest is for friction. the violin varnish is slick and slides off my shirt, not allowing me to grip.
yes i did. They sound fine. Perhaps a little work needed on intonation in places, but some nice playing and nice vibrato. :))
thanks for these tips very helpful , you are wonderful , great down to earth teaching and pretty to boot!!
That smile on 14:00 +/- I don't know why but it made me so happy :') more than I was before, I like the idea of the cloth under the violin I'm preparing myself to buy "meh first violin" so yeah :L Awesome channel by the by :)
video coming next on this
I like without, but my teachers yelled at me for not using one. The best one I ever had was an Everest Shoulder rest, very comfy, very soft. I think the reason most people make students start on shoulder rests is because you might not have the muscles to hold the violin properly. Shoulder rests are kind of like training wheels I think. Not that I think less of people for using them, it’s just whatever is most comfy
None of my students have ever used a shoulder rest - I just make sure I teach them properly and learn to hold the violin correctly. Its a very personal thing and I find them very restricting with movement and posture.
I look at the wolf shoulder rests and there to much money but are the kun shoulder rest good !
they are amazing. I use one on my viola
your smile near the end makes me laugh and smile ☺
I love you !! You are an amazing teacher !
thanks for the video. if i may ask does the height of your bridge matter?
Yes. If you get a good violin this will already be set up.
Thanks for this video ... if I had seen it sooner I would not have bought the rest. One came ... nice rosewood ... one bent mount but regardless once it was on it just seemed to get in the way and act like a boat anchor. Felt like arm braces. I like your approach much better. No restraining rest. Fly free violin!
All of your videos are great!!!. Thank you!
This is where we differ as my violin is worth a lot of money, but putting a shoulder rest or anything attaching itself to the body, reduces the tone and makes it a little more nasil-like.
Hello!
Does this shoulder rest work well for a left-handed violin?
(as in, can it be fitted so the curve accommodates into a right shoulder?)
THanks!
I would say so yes as you just turn it around.
@@TheOnlineViolinTutor Thanks!
Thank you...following you a little now...I found a video on how to put a shoulder rest..(in the shorts list)....it was 23 seconds and I undertood. Sorry
You’ve just gifted me such a phenomenal idea-“Using my mum’s handmade tea towels as a folksy shoulder rest that’s held down with a simple recycled newspaper elastic band!” One of the most practical/useful and very best violin life hacks I’d wish I had come across so much sooner. Well done darling, I have some of the nicest ones my mum’s sewn up and just sent me too ^_~ Please dm me so I could have the pleasure of paying this one forward please!!!
If you keep the the high chin rest, does that compensate for the shoulder rest?
Not really - but it depends on your neck and whats comfortable for you.
I simply have a sponge attached with a rubber band as a shoulder rest. Would a more expensive one like shown in the video effect anything? It feels crowded with it, but it tends to hurt after a long time without one.
It wont affect the sound.
God bless you ! ever !! for your help many people ! Teacher!
U realy luv's what u make ! ouyour'e is our inspiration !
your brasilian fã. ever !
Woww thanks for your informations! It helps so much!!! 😍❤️❤️❤️
I just got my violin last night. It is for 3/4 and 4/4 violin, as said in the back of it, but I think it doesn't fit my 4/4 violin. I already adjusted it by unscrewing. Should I buy another shoulder rest, or I didn't completely adjusted it?
What shoulder rest do you have? The Wolfe ones fit 3/4 and 4/4 violins.
I used to wear a shoulder rest along time ago when I was younger, but i kept it set so low to the violin anyway, that after it actually broke, I ditched it and got used to playing without. I then got a center mounted chin rest which really helped maintaim better control and keep the violin more comfortable. I cant remeber the last time I used a should rest.
What Brand of violin would be one to begin with. And which size should I get.
Fiddlerman violins are the only ones I recommend: bit.ly/2TCgWk1
if youre an adult, youll need a full size.
This might come off as a dumb question but I can't seem to find ANY clear information on it and I'm pretty new at this so here it is; Are all shoulder rests adjustable in height? Can you sort of "force" them to fit by adjusting it? I know some can but can they all?
No I don't think so
Some can be resized and risen in height but only about a centimeter. But I've only had one shoulder rest.
great lesson.
If I have a kinda "long neck", should I use the shoulder rest, or find the most comfortable way to hold they violin without it?
What is the difference between the primo and secondo versions of the wolf shoulder rest other than the fact that the secondo is more curved?
im honestly not sure. Google it?
5:00 I'd say you're rather a rare individual who can hold it like that without any long term issues with the shoulder and/or neck pain. Ideally you shouldn't move anything, just put your head down to the left and have straight posture. I'd say for new players 99% chance you need a shoulder rest if you have proper violin hold. You also learned violin and slowly moved to play without shoulder rest with cloth first, and etc. So yeah, for any newbie watching this - 99% you need shoulder rest.
Thank You. This was very helpful for a new player. P.S. You have a beautiful smile.
Fiddle Time Joggers is GREAT! I teach with it all the time and its excellent.
Hi, I have concerns about hearing.
Loss in the left ear while holding it in the traditional way. Are there any alternatives?
Sierranite you won't lose your hearing I've been playing for 7years and have had no problems
yes, but you can use an elastic band to secure them in and then they stay rather well :)