July 27, 2014

Tips On How To Hold A Violin Correctly

By Paulette Mason


A violin is a string instrument which is also known as a fiddle. Unlike the guitar, it only has four strings in it. Usually, it is played using a bow, which is made up of a stick and a ribbon. There are different ways or posture it can be played, it is either in a standing position or seated. Before, violins are only used for romantic music, but today some bands already used violins in a pop rock genre.

Good postures while playing this instrument is very vital to reduce straining injuries. A well established posture is the best foundation for excellent playing. Unfortunately, most violinists are not so sure on how to hold a violin correctly. In this article, you will know more about it.

Standing is the most common position when playing a violin. If you are doing this position, you have to ensure that you set your feet are a shoulder width apart. After that, you should always try to center down your weight equally on both of your feet. It is necessary that your spine is properly aligned while relaxing your shoulder and keeping it leveled.

In holding the fiddle or violin, you must try to elevate it without lifting your left shoulder. It should constantly stay horizontal without aid from your left hand. If you are able to do this, you are holding your instrument correctly. Doing this properly, will ease your shifts later, which is essential for better performance.

There are two types of chin rests, the left plated chin rest and a center plated one. This works perfectly well, depending on how long your arm is. If you have long arms, a left plated one will work perfectly for you. Otherwise, if you have short arms, you can use a center plated instead.

The main purpose of a chin rest is to provide you a comfortable place for your jaw. It also helps to adjust the distance from your jaw to the collarbone. If a chin rest is fitted perfectly, a fiddle can be held with ease and with a longer amount of time. You might consider, getting a simple, flatted chin rest than those contoured ones.

There are violins that are too large for us to handle. If you think you have this kind of issue, it is better if you swap for a smaller one. This will help you learn more techniques easily rather than using large ones which are very uncomfortable.

Furthermore, always try to maintain the equilibrium of the violin in your shoulder. In this way, you can avoid to grip too hard using your chin. If you are holding it a wrong way it will cause tension and can create a serious complication in the long run. Take your time and find out the most comfortable position for you.

People are different in every aspects. We are also different on how we define comfort. You can try these tips and see if it works for you. There are many ways to hold a violin correctly, all you have to do is find the best one that suits you. Anyway, what we only looking for, is a position which is where we are comfortable and we think that we can perform well. Feel free to experiment and make sure to always consider your safety.




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