WEEK 2: Attaching Your Shoulder Rest

There are many different kinds of shoulder rests out there. I recommend KUN or Bon Musica rests, because they are effective and well-made. Cheaper versions with similar design often fall apart after a short time or don't fit securely enough to be effective.

The rest fits on the back of the instrument. A KUN rest has a wide end and a narrow end. From this view, the wide end is on the right (or on the same side of the violin as the chin rest). It is contoured to fit over the player's shoulder.


The Bon Musica rest has a similar design, but with a deeper curve. This curve often helps students keep their violins out to the side and on their shoulders properly.

A foam rest is an inexpensive choice, and can be suitable for some (especially very young players). I do not prefer them because they often do not offer enough support, they can slide around instead of providing a secure violin posture, and the foam against the back of the violin can dampen the vibration of the wood somewhat. Still, they are the most practical choice for many beginning students, so here is one below. It is secured with rubber bands. The curved part fits over the player's shoulder, while the thicker part rests on the collarbone area.