How To Play Without a Shoulder Rest | Transitioning to a New Setup on Violin or Viola

Finding the right setup on violin or viola isn't always a straight path. It's common for many players to undergo a change of setup multiple times in life. We need to adapt the instrument to fit the body more ideally that will allow more freedom in playing and prevent injuries. Our bodies change continuously, so it's no surprise that more and more players opt to experiment playing with different setup options. For the full setup we need to consider the width of the instrument, the height, location, and shape of the chinrest, and what support (if any) will be added underneath. In this video, I talk about how to play without a shoulder rest, share a bit of my own journey, and go over steps to take to make this transition safe, effective, and injury-free. I also talk about how left hand technique will need to adapt to the new setup.

TIMESTAMPS
0:00 - Intro
2:33 - Setup variations for violin/viola including chinrest and overall height
4:02 - Aiming for freedom of the head and neck
4:47 - Shoulder pads, Sponges, Anti-slips
6:13 - Bodymapping! Thank you, Claire Stefani!
7:26 - Freedom to adjust instrument angle
9:18 - Role of the thumb & understanding arm structure
11:15 - Vibrato tips without shoulder rest
13:38 - Shifting without shoulder rest
15:01 - Neutral head position
16:23 - Involvement of larger muscles to prevent injuries

MENTIONED ITEMS
Magic Pad: https://amzn.to/3IDhpKV
Chin Rest Cover: https://amzn.to/45wdKsc
Berber Chinrest: https://amzn.to/3oo7Gl4

RECOMMENDED READING
"What Every Violinist Needs to Know About the Body" by Jennifer Johnson: https://amzn.to/45nclnX

🔸BI-MONTHLY NEWSLETTER: Subscribers get highlights of my blog & videos, and exclusive resources from time to time. FREE Practice Plan PDF upon signing up.
🎉SIGN UP HERE: ➡ https://www.violinna.live/newsletter/

WHO AM I?
Inna Langerman
•Violinist in NYC/tri-state region (Local 802 & 380-443)
•Teacher of violin & viola (NYSUT, AFT)
•Coach of Chamber Music & Orchestra
•Owner/CEO of Violinna Live Academy

🔸WOULD YOU LIKE A FREE 30-MINUTE TRIAL LESSON/CONSULTATION?
Email me at [email protected] or send a DM on Facebook.

🎤YOUTUBE GEAR🎤
Lavalier: https://amzn.to/3u9QEEW
Blue Yeti: https://amzn.to/3t6i9O0
AT4040 Cardioid Condenser: https://amzn.to/2RcGuVa
Selfie Ring Light & Phone Holder: https://amzn.to/3gTEewW

🎼MUSIC GEAR🎼
My Rosin: https://amzn.to/3te9ARH
Stand Light: https://amzn.to/3e4yLl5
Pencil Holder: https://amzn.to/3323w3W
Music Clips: https://amzn.to/3xBpKaX

FOLLOW FOR MORE⬇️
🔹Website: https://www.violinna.live​
🔹Subscribe:    / violinna​  
🔹Facebook:   / violinnamusic​  
🔹Instagram:   / violinna  

LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Some links found in my video's description are affiliate links. This means that if you click and decide to make a purchase, I might make a small commission; however, it's at no extra cost to you, and it's another way you can help support me and my channel! I only ever recommend tools that I personally trust, use, and tested myself.