Do you need a sholder rest for your violin?

Question

I am somewhat new to the violin and i recently discovered a sholder rest. Do you have to have one? does it effect your playing (for better or worse), would you advise i get one?

Answer 1

Hey Mogie,

A shoulder rest is an option. It was introduced mostly for beginners to give them the correct height and how the chin should rest in reference to the arms etc...

The best Violinst was Stephane Grapelli and he never used a shoulder rest, nor does Jean-Luc Ponty, another awesome violinist.

It's a matter of taste but not a necessity. I do a lot of studio wrok and never seen one use it yet.

Answer 2

I go to music school. I'm not a violin major, but I do have to learn it and pass strings class. I like the rest. If you are going to be at it a while, get it

Answer 3

Most players do use shoudler rests, though some do not.  I do, though there was a period in my younger days when I didn't.  

You just have to experiment and see what feels best to you.  See:

Shoulder rests

http://beststudentviolins.com/survival.h...

Answer 4

I have played the violin for 17 years. I would get one for sure. It helps with supporting the violin. You will be able to tell a difference for sure, because you won't be pushing down so hard with your chin and clinching it with you shoulder to keep it in the correct position. I would go to your local music store, any place that sells instruments, strings, rosin and such should have them. If not look on the internet.

Answer 5

You don't HAVE to buy one. The shoulder rest is more comfortable though. I would say that as a beginner, you should consider buying one because it will get you used the violin and won't give you aches. People who don't use one usually are long time players, and they are used to having it for long periods of time (such as concerts, recitals, etc.).

Answer 6

it makes it easier to play; im in my seventh year of violin and i always use one, mines a KUN but if u go 2 popplars or scotts music stores somebody can answer your questions or just ask your lesson teacher for recommendations.