Tuesday, December 24, 2013

A Brief Guide To Violin Accessories

By Cornelia White


With most musical instruments it is not just the instrument itself but also a number of items that are key to using it effectively. Some things are used to improve the performance while others ensure that it is kept in the best possible condition. A good example of this is violin accessories.

One example of an item that affects the sound of the instrument is a mute. A mute is a small item that is clipped onto the bridge of the violin. These can be made from a range of materials such as wood, metal or plastic. As the name suggests a mute softens the sound of the instrument, creating a softer sound that can be useful when you need to change the tone during a piece.

Another way to reduce damage to your instrument is by using a dehumidifier. The danger with a wooden instrument is that it can bend and warp in extremes of temperature. With a dehumidifier you can compensate for the moisture in a room and ensure the instrument stays in the best condition.

There are also a number of accessories you can use to change the sound of the instrument. For example there may be points in a piece where you want to play your violin a bit softer. One way to achieve this is to clip a mute to the bridge of your instrument. As you might have guessed this makes the sound of the instrument quieter, perfect for softer pieces of music.

Rosin is also crucial for this. It is a kind of tree sap that is used to improve grip or friction between the bow and string. If you do not use rosin then it can be very hard to get sound from the instrument. Rosin can vary in quality and the type you buy will improve if you get a higher quality item. The best also mix in precious metals such as gold and silver and this further improves the quality of the sound.

One area that causes debate amongst violinists is whether or not you ought to use a shoulder rest. Some musicians argue that this is important because if you do not use them it can cause discomfort. While you can fashion one yourself using a sponge or a block of wood you can purchase ones that can be properly fitted to increase comfort.

Those opposed to using a shoulder rest maintain that this will result in a distance between the violinist and their instrument. Therefore they are also opposed to chin rests for a similar reason. Regardless of whether or not you object to this what is true that the relationship between a violinist and their instrument is often a personal one and therefore it can be very difficult to say what is right or wrong in this particular aspect as it is about the personal comfort of the person playing the instrument.

There are numerous places where you can purchase violin accessories. It helps to look at product reviews and customer feedback as well as asking for advice from your tutor or fellow musicians. This will make it easier to find the right accessories that are appropriate for your needs.




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