By Brittney Swanson
Most quality violins come equipped with a chinrest already in place. The size, shape and type of violin chinrest can affect a player's control of the instrument as well as their comfort while playing. However, this component is very easy to replace and is one of the least expensive parts of the instrument.
Although it may seem small, the chinrest is actually an important component. Most are constructed out of wood or plastic and can be secured using a metal clamp. As can be discerned from its name, this is the area where a player places their chin to secure the instrument. A violinist who was looking for a way to gain greater control while playing came up with the concept a few centuries ago.
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.
Most chinrests are made from some type of wood. The most common woods used are ebony, rosewood and boxwood. With today's advancements in technology, it is not uncommon to find some that are made from plastic, which is considered hypoallergenic, or even a gel material. The back is typically padded with a material such as felt or cork. This is to minimize any damage to the wood of the instrument.
It is common for violinists that play frequently to get some type of rash or irritated skin near their neck or chin. A poorly fitted chinrest can cause pressure on the skin, which could lead to the irritation. Some violinists may even have a reaction to the material they are made from. Trying an alternative size or shape may help alleviate the problem. Another option would be to use a padded slipcover or a cloth.
There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to selecting a chinrest. It is purely a matter of personal preference. Since there are so many types to choose from, it may be a good idea to try out a few at a local shop. The most important consideration is comfort. This is especially true for younger players who may become discouraged if playing their instrument causes them pain.
Anyone who has been experiencing neck or chin discomfort when they play should look into replacing their violin chinrest. Fortunately, they are very simple to replace and are also fairly inexpensive. It may take a bit of trial and error, but finding a good fit is worth it. This is most important for new players, so that they don't become discouraged by any discomfort.
Although it may seem small, the chinrest is actually an important component. Most are constructed out of wood or plastic and can be secured using a metal clamp. As can be discerned from its name, this is the area where a player places their chin to secure the instrument. A violinist who was looking for a way to gain greater control while playing came up with the concept a few centuries ago.
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.
Most chinrests are made from some type of wood. The most common woods used are ebony, rosewood and boxwood. With today's advancements in technology, it is not uncommon to find some that are made from plastic, which is considered hypoallergenic, or even a gel material. The back is typically padded with a material such as felt or cork. This is to minimize any damage to the wood of the instrument.
It is common for violinists that play frequently to get some type of rash or irritated skin near their neck or chin. A poorly fitted chinrest can cause pressure on the skin, which could lead to the irritation. Some violinists may even have a reaction to the material they are made from. Trying an alternative size or shape may help alleviate the problem. Another option would be to use a padded slipcover or a cloth.
There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to selecting a chinrest. It is purely a matter of personal preference. Since there are so many types to choose from, it may be a good idea to try out a few at a local shop. The most important consideration is comfort. This is especially true for younger players who may become discouraged if playing their instrument causes them pain.
Anyone who has been experiencing neck or chin discomfort when they play should look into replacing their violin chinrest. Fortunately, they are very simple to replace and are also fairly inexpensive. It may take a bit of trial and error, but finding a good fit is worth it. This is most important for new players, so that they don't become discouraged by any discomfort.