Monday, 4 August 2014

Learning How To Hold A Violin

By Annabelle Holman


The violin or fiddle is a wonderful four-stringed instrument that was created to make beautiful melodies. However, a common mistake that students of this magical instrument make is not learning how to hold a violin properly. This is the first thing that should be studied. There is the right way to hold it which should be followed every time that one picks up this instrument.

One piece of equipment for the student of the violin is called a shoulder rest. This helpful tool should be placed towards the lower bout on the back of the violin. Its purpose is to add comfort while holding the fiddle.

There are many types of shoulder rests that exist that a beginner may purchase. Some may be expensive. One cheap option is to simply purchase a nylon sponge and attach it to the back of the instrument and left edge corner with a rubber band.

The positioning of the violin is being held in the left hand and on the left shoulder. It needs to be on the shoulder rest directly on top. Carefully place one's chin on the chin rest which is at the top of the instrument base. It is oval in its shape and black in color. It makes the violin easier when holding. Make sure that the fit is secure between the instrument and the individual's shoulder. A person should be able to support the instrument without using their hands.

The left hand of an individual is to be placed on the violin's neck, offering support for the instrument. The left thumb is important and is often located to the left of the fingerboard with a half inch width of space between it and the fingerboard. It is to be level in comparison to the height of the fingerboard. Not an inch lower and not an inch higher.

The positioning of the wrist is sometimes difficult for beginners to perfect. It is natural to want to place one's wrist on the back of the fiddle in order to rest, but is strongly discouraged. The wrist is not supposed to touch the instrument at all, but should always be in a straight position. It needs to be free to play whatever notes it wants uninhibited.

The instrument always needs to be parallel to the ground and and straight in front of the individual. It is the individual's decision to play either standing up or sitting down. Anyone can get lazy and play with the instrument pointed downwards, but this is a bad habit to start. If playing standing up, feet must be shoulder width apart and weighted evenly. When sitting down, make sure to sit at the edge of the chair in and no not slouch.

It is so important to follow these tips religiously and as time moves on, playing the violin will seem natural. Start these guidelines right away in order to develop good habits that will pay off over time. The sound of beautiful music is just a few notes away!




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