How to Attach a Viola Shoulder Rest

You'll enjoy playing your viola more if it fits comfortably.

A viola is slightly larger than a violin; the primary differences are the strings and the clef. The strings on the violin are the "G," "D," "A" and "E." On the viola, there isn't an "E" string; instead, there's a "C" string to the left of the "G." This gives the viola a lower register. Music for viola is read on the alto clef, the middle line of which is middle C. A shoulder rest gives the musician more ease when playing the instrument.

Instructions

1. Lay your viola on a flat surface -- either a table or your lap. The back should be facing up, and the neck should be facing your left hand.

2. Change the placeholders on your shoulder rest until they fit your viola by loosening the cap screw and changing the notches as needed.

3. Pick up the neck of the violin and set the violin on the rubber foot attached to the rest. Slide the top half of the rest into position. If it won't stay on the viola, the placeholders need to be narrower; if you can't get the rest to go on, then they need to be wider.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can hold your violin in position just using your chin and shoulder without tensing your muscles, then your rest is in the right position. If not, adjust the legs or placeholders until you can.

References

• Amazonia Strings: PSR Plus Shoulder Rest for Viola
• Viola in Music: Viola Clef
• StringSavvy: How to Set up and Adjust a Kun Shoulder Rest