It is something you put between the violin and your shoulder (hence the name) to make it more comfortable to play. It also helps your posture while you are playing. Most professionals highly recommend the use of a shoulder rest. It can also help prevent back injuries. It feels a little weird playing with it at first, however, as you play with a shoulder rest it becomes quite comfy and it becoms quite hard to play without one.
a shoulder rest is an attachment
Shoulder Rests are a great way to keep your shoulder comfortable when you are playing the violin... BUT are optional. You can use the violin with or without one, but some people find using a shoulder rest more comfortable then not using one, and vice versa. So, In conclusion, you are not required to use a shoulder rest.
If there is space, the shoulder rest should fit under the neck of the violin. If not, then it will probably fit on the side of the neck. If this still doesn't work, then just carry the shoulder rest separately.
Yes, the viola ones are bigger since the viola is bigger.
Violin sholder rest are really important.You need it so you won't get a sore necklike my orchestra teacher @ school.
You slide it on from the behind. The easiest way is to sit down, put the violin between your thighs to keep it from moving, then slide on the shoulder rest and VOILA! Shoulder rest is on:) Remember to make sure that the wider side is on the right.
There is a U.S. patent, number 3727509 with a file date of 07/22/1971.
To hold a violin properly, place the chin rest against the chin, rest the left side of the jaw on the chin rest, and support the violin with the left hand and shoulder. The right hand should hold the bow and the left hand should press the strings on the fingerboard.
Just find one that fits the violin shape, and slots for one or two bows. Also find pockets for rosin, and other items used for the violin, like a shoulder rest.
Yes, you can use the same shoulder rest for both a violin and a viola, but it's important to check the size and fit. Violas are generally larger and may require a wider or longer shoulder rest to ensure comfort and proper positioning. Some shoulder rests are adjustable, making them suitable for both instruments. Always try the rest on your viola to ensure it provides the right support for your playing style.
Some essential accessories for violin players include a shoulder rest, rosin for the bow, a tuner or metronome, a cleaning cloth, and a music stand.
For a beginner, this is a "must". Only in later years might you be able to properly support the violin without it ... takes some amount of training to accomplish.