1. Juilliard School (New York City, NY)

The Juilliard School is one of the most renowned music conservatories in the world, and its violin program is no exception. With a faculty that includes some of the most respected violinists and pedagogues, Juilliard offers an intensive and comprehensive education. Students have access to numerous performance opportunities, including concerts at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.

2. Curtis Institute of Music (Philadelphia, PA)

Curtis Institute of Music is a highly selective conservatory that offers full scholarships to all its students. Its violin program is led by some of the most distinguished artists and educators in the field. Curtis has a strong focus on chamber music and solo performance, and its students have gone on to win numerous international competitions.

3. New England Conservatory (Boston, MA)

New England Conservatory (NEC) is one of the oldest and most respected music conservatories in the USA. Its violin program is known for its emphasis on both technical mastery and musical expression. NEC’s faculty includes some of the most celebrated violinists and pedagogues, and its students have access to a wide range of performance opportunities.

4. University of Southern California Thornton School of Music (Los Angeles, CA)

The University of Southern California Thornton School of Music is a top-ranked conservatory that offers a comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most respected artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to numerous performance opportunities, including concerts with the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

5. Eastman School of Music (Rochester, NY)

Eastman School of Music is a highly respected conservatory that offers a rigorous and comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most distinguished artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to a wide range of performance opportunities, including concerts with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

6. Cleveland Institute of Music (Cleveland, OH)

Cleveland Institute of Music is a top-ranked conservatory that offers a comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most respected artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to numerous performance opportunities, including concerts with the Cleveland Orchestra.

7. San Francisco Conservatory of Music (San Francisco, CA)

San Francisco Conservatory of Music is a top-ranked conservatory that offers a comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most respected artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to numerous performance opportunities, including concerts with the San Francisco Symphony.

8. Oberlin Conservatory of Music (Oberlin, OH)

Oberlin Conservatory of Music is a highly respected conservatory that offers a comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most distinguished artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to a wide range of performance opportunities, including concerts with the Oberlin Orchestra.

9. University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance (Ann Arbor, MI)

University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance is a highly respected conservatory that offers a comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most distinguished artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to a wide range of performance opportunities, including concerts with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra.

10. Northwestern University Bienen School of Music (Evanston, IL)

Northwestern University Bienen School of Music is a top-ranked conservatory that offers a comprehensive education in violin performance. Its faculty includes some of the most respected artists and educators in the field, and its students have access to numerous performance opportunities, including concerts with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these music conservatories offer some of the best education and training for aspiring violinists in the USA. Each conservatory has its unique strengths and opportunities, and the right choice will depend on individual goals and preferences. By considering factors such as faculty, performance opportunities, and alumni success, violinists can find the perfect conservatory to help them achieve their musical dreams.

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Early Days of Violin Playing

In the early days of violin playing, musicians did not have the luxury of modern shoulder rests. Instead, they relied on various makeshift solutions to support their instruments. Some players used sponges, leather, or cloth to cushion their shoulders, while others used more unorthodox methods, such as placing a small pillow or even a book under their chin. These early solutions were often cumbersome and ineffective, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and even injury.

The First Shoulder Rests

The first shoulder rests were developed in the early 20th century, with the first patent for a shoulder rest being granted in 1936. These early models were often simple and rudimentary, consisting of a small metal or wooden device that attached to the violin. While they provided some support, they were not widely adopted and were often criticized for their lack of comfort and adjustability.

The Modern Shoulder Rest

The modern shoulder rest, as we know it today, was first marketed in 1972. This new design featured rubber feet and a curved synthetic material that conformed to the shape of the player’s shoulder. This innovation provided a more comfortable and secure fit, allowing players to focus on their technique rather than struggling with the physical demands of holding the violin.

Benefits of the Shoulder Rest

The shoulder rest offers several benefits to violinists, including:

• Comfort: The shoulder rest provides a cushioned surface for the player’s shoulder, reducing fatigue and discomfort during long practice sessions or performances.
• Support: The shoulder rest helps to hold the violin in place, allowing the player to focus on their technique rather than worrying about the instrument slipping or falling.
• Reduced Tension: By providing support and comfort, the shoulder rest can help reduce tension and pain in the neck, shoulder, and back, common problems for violinists.
• Improved Technique: With the shoulder rest taking care of the physical demands of holding the violin, players can focus on developing their technique, leading to improved sound quality and overall musicianship.

Famous Violinists and the Shoulder Rest

Some famous violinists, such as Pinchas Zukerman, Itzhak Perlman, and Isaac Stern, did not use shoulder rests. Instead, they relied on their own technique and physical strength to hold the violin. However, many other players, including some of the most renowned violinists of our time, swear by the shoulder rest as an essential tool in their playing.

Do You Need a Shoulder Rest?

Whether or not you need a shoulder rest depends on several physical factors, including:

• Neck length: Players with shorter necks may find it more difficult to hold the violin without a shoulder rest.
• Neck width: Players with narrower necks may prefer a shoulder rest to help support the violin.
• Shoulder shape: Players with sloping shoulders or other unique shoulder shapes may benefit from a shoulder rest to help hold the violin in place.

Downsides of the Shoulder Rest

While the shoulder rest offers many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Sound quality: Some players believe that the shoulder rest can inhibit the vibration of the violin, affecting its sound quality.
• Dependence: Relying too heavily on the shoulder rest can lead to poor technique and a lack of physical strength and control.
• Adjustability: Finding the right fit and adjustability can be a challenge, and some players may find that the shoulder rest does not meet their specific needs.

Conclusion

The violin shoulder rest has come a long way since its early days, and its evolution has had a significant impact on the comfort and technique of violinists around the world. While it may not be suitable for every player, the shoulder rest is an essential tool for many musicians, providing comfort, support, and improved technique. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner, understanding the history and benefits of the shoulder rest can help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

The violin shoulder rest, a seemingly simple device, has a rich history and plays a crucial role in the comfort and technique of violinists around the world. In this article, we will delve into the origins of the shoulder rest, its evolution over time, and its benefits and drawbacks.

More information can be found here.

Early Days of Violin Playing

In the early days of violin playing, musicians did not have the luxury of modern shoulder rests. Instead, they relied on various makeshift solutions to support their instruments. Some players used sponges, leather, or cloth to cushion their shoulders, while others used more unorthodox methods, such as placing a small pillow or even a book under their chin. These early solutions were often cumbersome and ineffective, leading to discomfort, fatigue, and even injury.

The First Shoulder Rests

The first shoulder rests were developed in the early 20th century, with the first patent for a shoulder rest being granted in 1936. These early models were often simple and rudimentary, consisting of a small metal or wooden device that attached to the violin. While they provided some support, they were not widely adopted and were often criticized for their lack of comfort and adjustability.

The Modern Shoulder Rest

The modern shoulder rest, as we know it today, was first marketed in 1972. This new design featured rubber feet and a curved synthetic material that conformed to the shape of the player’s shoulder. This innovation provided a more comfortable and secure fit, allowing players to focus on their technique rather than struggling with the physical demands of holding the violin.

Benefits of the Shoulder Rest

The shoulder rest offers several benefits to violinists, including:

• Comfort: The shoulder rest provides a cushioned surface for the player’s shoulder, reducing fatigue and discomfort during long practice sessions or performances.
• Support: The shoulder rest helps to hold the violin in place, allowing the player to focus on their technique rather than worrying about the instrument slipping or falling.
• Reduced Tension: By providing support and comfort, the shoulder rest can help reduce tension and pain in the neck, shoulder, and back, common problems for violinists.
• Improved Technique: With the shoulder rest taking care of the physical demands of holding the violin, players can focus on developing their technique, leading to improved sound quality and overall musicianship.

Famous Violinists and the Shoulder Rest

Some famous violinists, such as Pinchas Zukerman, Itzhak Perlman, and Isaac Stern, did not use shoulder rests. Instead, they relied on their own technique and physical strength to hold the violin. However, many other players, including some of the most renowned violinists of our time, swear by the shoulder rest as an essential tool in their playing.

Do You Need a Shoulder Rest?

Whether or not you need a shoulder rest depends on several physical factors, including:

• Neck length: Players with shorter necks may find it more difficult to hold the violin without a shoulder rest.
• Neck width: Players with narrower necks may prefer a shoulder rest to help support the violin.
• Shoulder shape: Players with sloping shoulders or other unique shoulder shapes may benefit from a shoulder rest to help hold the violin in place.

Downsides of the Shoulder Rest

While the shoulder rest offers many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Sound quality: Some players believe that the shoulder rest can inhibit the vibration of the violin, affecting its sound quality.
• Dependence: Relying too heavily on the shoulder rest can lead to poor technique and a lack of physical strength and control.
• Adjustability: Finding the right fit and adjustability can be a challenge, and some players may find that the shoulder rest does not meet their specific needs.

Conclusion

The violin shoulder rest has come a long way since its early days, and its evolution has had a significant impact on the comfort and technique of violinists around the world. While it may not be suitable for every player, the shoulder rest is an essential tool for many musicians, providing comfort, support, and improved technique. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner, understanding the history and benefits of the shoulder rest can help you make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.

The post When Was The Shoulder Rest Invented? appeared first on Ricard Bunnel.

Holding the Violin

To hold the violin correctly, follow these steps:

1. Neck and Scroll Position

Place the neck of the violin at a slight angle, with the scroll pointing towards your left shoulder. This position allows for easy access to the fingerboard and helps maintain good posture. The ideal angle is around 10-15 degrees, which enables you to comfortably reach the higher notes on the fingerboard.

2. Shoulder Rest

Use a shoulder rest to support the violin, keeping it at a comfortable height. This helps distribute the weight of the instrument evenly and prevents fatigue. Adjust the shoulder rest to fit your body, ensuring the violin is held securely without putting pressure on your neck or shoulder.

3. Chin Rest

Adjust the chin rest to fit your jaw comfortably, keeping your head straight and your eyes looking down at the fingerboard. The chin rest should support the jaw, not the neck, allowing for relaxed playing and minimizing strain on your neck and shoulder muscles.

4. Left Hand Position

Place your left hand around the neck of the violin, with your thumb opposite your index finger. This position allows for smooth finger movement and accurate intonation. Keep your wrist straight and your fingers curled, with your thumb providing support and balance.

5. Right Hand Position

Hold the bow with your right hand, placing your thumb on top of the stick and your fingers wrapped around it. Keep your wrist relaxed and your arm straight, with a gentle grip that allows for precise control. The bow should be held at a slight angle, with the stick pointing towards the fingerboard.

6. Posture and Balance

Maintain good posture while playing, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. Keep your back straight and your head held high, avoiding slouching or leaning forward. This balance will help you maintain control and produce a clear, resonant sound.

Holding the Fiddle

To hold the fiddle correctly, follow these steps:

1. Neck and Scroll Position

Hold the neck of the fiddle at a more vertical angle than the violin, with the scroll pointing towards the ceiling. This position allows for more aggressive bowing and a more energetic sound. The ideal angle is around 20-25 degrees, which enables you to produce a brighter, more projecting tone.

2. No Shoulder Rest

Fiddlers often prefer not to use a shoulder rest, as it allows for more freedom of movement and a closer connection to the instrument. This also enables a more dynamic playing style, with a focus on rhythm and energy.

3. Chin Rest

Use a chin rest if needed, but many fiddlers prefer not to use one, as it can restrict movement and tone. If you do use a chin rest, adjust it to fit your jaw comfortably, keeping your head straight and your eyes looking down at the fingerboard.

4. Left Hand Position

Place your left hand around the neck of the fiddle, with your thumb opposite your index finger. This position allows for smooth finger movement and accurate intonation. Keep your wrist straight and your fingers curled, with your thumb providing support and balance.

5. Right Hand Position

Hold the bow with your right hand, placing your thumb on top of the stick and your fingers wrapped around it. Keep your wrist relaxed and your arm straight, with a gentle grip that allows for precise control. The bow should be held at a slight angle, with the stick pointing towards the fingerboard.

6. Posture and Balance

Maintain good posture while playing, with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. Keep your back straight and your head held high, avoiding slouching or leaning forward. This balance will help you maintain control and produce a clear, resonant sound.

Key Differences

• Neck angle: The fiddle is held at a more vertical angle than the violin, allowing for more aggressive bowing and a more energetic sound.
• Shoulder rest: Fiddlers often prefer not to use a shoulder rest, while violinists usually do.
• Chin rest: Fiddlers may not use a chin rest, while violinists often do.
• Bowing motion: Fiddlers use a more pronounced bowing motion than violinists, with a focus on rhythm and energy.

• Finger placement: Fiddlers often use a more relaxed finger placement, with a focus on rhythm and chord progressions, while violinists use a more precise finger placement, with a focus on melody and harmony.
• Bow pressure: Fiddlers often use more bow pressure, with a focus on producing a louder, more energetic sound, while violinists use less bow pressure, with a focus on producing a more subtle, nuanced sound.
• Vibrato: Fiddlers often use a more pronounced vibrato, with a focus on adding emotional intensity to the music, while violinists use a more subtle vibrato, with a focus on adding depth and complexity to the music.

Tips for Violinists

• Relax your shoulders: Keep your shoulders relaxed and down, avoiding tension and strain.
• Use a shoulder rest: A shoulder rest can help distribute the weight of the violin and reduce fatigue.
• Keep your wrist straight: Keep your wrist straight and your fingers curled, avoiding strain and discomfort.
• Use a gentle bowing motion: Use a gentle bowing motion, with a focus on producing a smooth, even sound.

Tips for Fiddlers

• Hold the fiddle at a more vertical angle: Hold the fiddle at a more vertical angle, with the scroll pointing towards the ceiling.
• Use a more pronounced bowing motion: Use a more pronounced bowing motion, with a focus on producing a louder, more energetic sound.
• Use more bow pressure: Use more bow pressure, with a focus on producing a brighter, more projecting tone.
• Experiment with different rhythms: Experiment with different rhythms and chord progressions, with a focus on adding energy and excitement to the music.

Conclusion

Holding the fiddle and violin requires a slightly different technique, but both instruments demand good posture, hand positioning, and bow control to produce a beautiful sound. By understanding the unique aspects of each instrument and following the tips outlined above, you can adapt your playing style to suit the specific instrument and musical genre, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience.

Additional Resources

• Violin and Fiddle Lessons: Consider taking lessons with a qualified teacher to help you develop your playing technique and improve your sound.
• Online Resources: There are many online resources available, including video tutorials, instructional websites, and online forums, that can provide additional guidance and support.
• Practice: Remember to practice regularly, with a focus on developing good technique and improving your sound.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Poor posture: Avoid slouching or leaning forward, as this can put strain on your neck and shoulder muscles.
• Tight grip: Avoid holding the bow or fiddle too tightly, as this can cause fatigue and discomfort.
• Incorrect finger placement: Avoid placing your fingers too far up or down the fingerboard, as this can affect your intonation and tone.
• Inconsistent bowing motion: Avoid using an inconsistent bowing motion, as this can affect your tone and overall sound.

Final Thoughts

Holding the fiddle and violin requires a combination of good technique, practice, and patience. By following the tips and guidelines outlined above, you can develop a comfortable and effective playing style that will allow you to produce a beautiful sound and enjoy playing your instrument. Remember to always prioritize good posture, hand positioning, and bow control, and don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. Happy playing!

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The Bunnel Fiddle is a unique addition to the Bunnel instrument lineup. The fine woodwork and detailed setup on these violins provide comfortable playability, as well as an instrument that is pleasing to the eye. In addition to a beautifully flamed maple back, this violin also features genuine high-grade ebony fittings, four fine tuners, and an authentic, custom-fit German Teller or French Aubert bridge that has been specially shaped for Fiddle Style Playing.

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The Bunnel G2 is also available as a rental through authorized outlets.

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