Recommended Reading
“Musicians do some of the most complex and demanding physical movements of any profession”.
In our daily practise and performing too, it is very important to be aware of the state of our body, even more considering an instrument such as the violin where the only point of support is our own body. From the beginning we have to get comfortable holding the instrument in a secure but relaxed position, and to get it we have to keep in our mind one basic word: balance.
A recent research at the Utrecht School for the Arts, Faculty of Music in the Netherlands, states:
“Balance is the core of good violin and viola technique. The violinist's balance is often disturbed by the demands of his instrument in combination with chin and shoulder rest that do not fit his body. Stiffened and shortened neck, arm and back muscles inhibit good playing, which requires free movement in all joints. Years of cramped playing can lead to discomfort, pain and injury”.
You can read more about this here:
