As a violinist, there are certain accessories that are essential for ensuring that you produce the best sound and protect your instrument. In this blog post, we will discuss five violin accessories that every violinist must have.
- Rosin
Rosin is a must-have for any violinist. It is a resin that is rubbed onto the bow hair to create friction against the strings, which produces sound. Rosin also helps to protect the strings from wear and tear. There are different types of rosin available, and each one is designed to work with specific strings and playing styles. It is important to experiment with different types of rosin to find the one that works best for you.
Here are some Rosins I recommend that are affordable, and reliable:
- Shoulder Rest
A shoulder rest is an accessory that is placed between the violin and the shoulder to provide support and increase comfort while playing. A good shoulder rest can make a huge difference in the sound quality and ease of playing. It also helps to prevent injuries such as neck and shoulder strain. There are many different types of shoulder rests available, and it is important to find one that fits your body and playing style.
Here are some shoulder rests to look into that are comfortable for most violinists:
- Tuner
A tuner is a device that helps to ensure that your violin is in tune. It can be difficult to tune a violin by ear, especially for beginners. A tuner makes it easier to tune your instrument accurately and quickly. There are many different types of tuners available, including clip-on tuners and smartphone apps. A good tuner is an essential accessory for any violinist.
- Cleaning Cloth
A cleaning cloth is used to wipe down the strings, fingerboard, and body of the violin after playing. This helps to remove rosin buildup and sweat, which can damage the instrument over time. It is important to use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to avoid scratching the varnish on the violin. A cleaning cloth should be part of every violinist's kit.
I recommend a micro-fiber cloth that will do the job. Here are a few that work well:
- Case
A good case is essential for protecting your violin when you're not playing it. A hard case with a plush interior helps to prevent damage from bumps, drops, and temperature changes. It also provides a safe place to store your accessories, such as rosin and tuner. A good case is an investment in the protection of your instrument and should be chosen carefully.
Every violin needs a case, here are some cases that you may consider when buying a violin:
