Tuesday, December 18, 2012

How To Install And Adjust A Viola Chin Rest

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.

If installed properly, it creates no disturbance to the player during performance of the instrument. The appropriate placement of the support is determined by positioning it on the position it normally takes while performance is ongoing. You can use the help of a mirror to determine the correct position of the chin. This in turn defines the correct design of the support to buy. The cup location might be in the center or towards the right or left.

Follow the instruction from the manufacturer that accompanies the tool closely. Place the item on the tail end of the device and tighten the clamps slowly. Stop turning the screw if the piece is snugly in place. Take care not to tighten to hard or the instrument will be damaged.

Put the accessory to the test by playing a few lines. If you are uncomfortable with the accessory, make the necessary adjustments before using it in the actual performance. Determine the cause of the problem before any solution can be applied. A thin oil cream layer placed on the chin can help you to find the source of the problem.

Place the face on the rest and position it just like you would when playing. Hold the position of the face steady while you take away the instrument. Be careful not to disturb the mark made by the oil.

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.

A moleskin can be utilized in place of the improvised washcloth padding if it is not thick enough. The moleskin is a kind of foam that has a side fitted with an adhesive. Cut a piece from the roll that is sufficient to blanket the hard surfaces and protect the bones of the face.

Spread the foam evenly on the rest and make sure the adhesive side is not crumpled. Press the covering for a minimum of minute to be sure it is set firmly and will not peel off. If the viola chin rest continues to give you problems after the adjustments are applied, buy a new one made of different material.




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