Lesson 7 - On The Shoulder

Key Points: Placing The Violin on Your Shoulder

• You have already learnt the pieces in guitar position in this lesson. Now go and enjoy these getting used to the new position.

• Be careful not to place your violin on your chest rather than on your shoulder.

• Look carefully at the video - the violin is almost sideways on to me, not out in front (this can cause the instrument to slope downwards which will cause bowing problems.

• Adjust your shoulder rest if necessary. Heightening the shoulder rest with the feet raises the violin upwards.

• Sometimes changing your chin rest can make a difference. There are many types. Some people with long necks do benefit from a change of chin rest.

• If you are having problems getting the instrument to be level and comfortable then visit a good string instrument shop to get help and advice.

• You can do lesson 8 with this lesson.