A Guide to Properly Fitting Your Violin and Viola Shoulder Rest

The shoulder rest is a crucial accessory for enhancing comfort and stability while playing the violin or viola. Crafted from various materials like wood, plastic, carbon fiber, and aluminum, these rests come in diverse shapes and offer adjustable features for a personalized fit. Learn how to install your shoulder rest to ensure a comfortable and secure playing experience.

Installation Steps

Positioning

  • Place the shoulder rest on the lower part of the instrument, adjacent to the chinrest.
  • Orient the wider part of the shoulder rest on the same side as the chinrest.
  • Position the narrow part on the opposite side of the chinrest.

Installation

  • Slide the wider part onto the side of the chinrest.
  • Follow by sliding the narrow side onto the opposite side.

Adjustment

  • Once installed, fine-tune the angle to your preference for optimal comfort.

Tip

The shoulder rest fits on the lower part of the instrument towards the chinrest. Ensure the curved part of the shoulder rest aligns with the side of the chinrest.

Tip

Ensure the curved part of the shoulder rest aligns with the side of the chinrest.

Ensure that the legs of the shoulder rest make complete contact with the violin or viola.

How to use a Sponge as a Shoulder Rest

Tip

If using a non-traditional shoulder rest, use a large elastic by wrapping it around the chinrest, hooking it onto the lower bout’s pointy edge, and sliding a sponge under the elastic for support.