Friday, December 14, 2012

Tips On Viola Chin Rest Placement And Adjustment

By Celia Hall


The placement of the viola chin rest is an important part of the performance of a violist. Gone are the days when this tool was considered unnecessary. Today, it is used mainly during the performance of difficult pieces since it closes the space between the chin and the neck, allowing the player a steadier hold of the instrument.

The proper installation of the tool also ensures that there are no disturbances for the player when he starts to use the instrument. To find the right placement, position the instrument as you would when you play. Utilize a mirror to check the location of your mentum on the viola. This determines the design of the chin accessory appropriate for you. It can be with a cup on the middle, to the left, or to the right.

Position the piece on the tail end of the instrument and follow the instructions from the manufacturer for the proper installation. Tighten the bolts and nuts of the clamps slowly until it is fitted snugly on the viola. Do not overdo the tightening as this could damage it.

Test the position of the tool by playing a few notes. Adjust the positioning if you feel discomfort when performing with the instrument. If the tool is causing problems when you perform, determine the problem areas before an adjustment can be made. To do this, apply oil cream and spread it thinly in your chin.

Place the face carefully on the tool using the position that is used normally during a performance. Hold it steady while the instrument is removed. Check if the oily mark on the rest coincides with the proper position. If not, apply the adjustments.

You can see the area of the actual position of the face based on the oily impression. If it does not coincide with the position of the cup, you need to flatten the edges to make it more comfortable to use. A sharp knife such as the one used for whittling is needed. Shave slowly the layers of wood or plastic. Use gloves and shave away from you to protect yourself from accident.

If the cause of discomfort is the rubbing of the bones of the face on the uneven surface, you can place padding on top of the rest. A washcloth that is thick enough to provide cushion can be used. Cut it into pieces and secure in place on top of the chin rest using a rubber band.

If this does not work and the tool is still uncomfortable, use a moleskin instead of the cloth. It is a kind of foam that has an attached adhesive on one side. Cut a suitable piece that covers sufficiently all the surfaces in contact with the face and neck and attach it into the support.

Make sure that the adhesive is evenly spread on the rest. Press for at least a minute to make sure that the adhesive has set sufficiently. If you still encounter discomfort when using the viola chin rest, try replacing it with a new one of different make and material.




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