When first finding a fit with your violin, or when changing your fit (for example, because of a growth spurt, or a change in body proportions during growth,) there are a great many options from which to choose, (and many poor options,) so it can be helpful to have a good starting place. Here is a list of gear that I commonly recommend:
Chin rests:
The Wittner chin rest is a plastic, hypoallergenic rest that has a comfortable shape for almost everyone. It is available in side-mount or center-mount. Ask me about which mount would best suit your child. The price is currently (June 2024) $25.50 at Johnson String.
- Center mount, 1/16-1/8 size
- Center mount, 1/4-1/2 size
- Center mount, 3/4 size
- Center mount, 4/4 size
Shoulder rests:
The shoulder rest is maybe the single most important piece of equipment to get right for any player. Because our technique relies on the weight of the instrument being balanced on the shoulder at just the right place, size and comfort are critical. Do not buy a bar-style rest for a violin size smaller than 1/2 (see below.)
Sponges:
For the youngest players, a sponge is almost always the best choice. Having a squishy rest provides support, but importantly can visually identify shoulder and neck tension. With a more rigid rest, squeezing between head and shoulder might not be easily identified until a strong habit has formed. Isometric tension leads at best to unsatisfactory music making, and at worst, to injury. (I have personal experience with this exact injury.)
I recommend the Poly-pad, for children with longer necks, or who have had more than usual difficulty finding comfort.
Poly-pad, Grey. $9.50 Sizes range from extra small (1/16) to extra large (4/4)
If a polypad isn’t available, or doesn’t work for some reason, you can get the sponge rest:
Shoulder sponge, select soft, $6.25. Sizes range from #2 for 1/16-1/8 size to #6 for 4/4 size.
Shoulder rests:
For most students who need something different than a sponge or poly-pad, I recommend they begin with a regular Kun shoulder rest. They work well for most everyone. Please don’t buy a Kun rest or any bar-style rest for a violin size smaller than 1/2. I would avoid the ‘Everest’ brand as they are not very adjustable in spite of the cheaper price and range of colours.
Kun rest, original or junior, $26.95-$27.95
For taller students, those who have longer necks, or those for whom a Kun doesn’t work, I sometimes recommend the Wolf Forte-Secondo. It has a flexible bar that can be shaped to your shoulder, and height extensions that can make it very tall. I use this rest with my own violin.
