Accessories for Every New (Violin) Outfit

Purchasing an instrument seems like a daunting task, and the most difficult part is over once you decide which instrument you want to get. Right? Perhaps…

There are many accessories available for anyone who has purchased a violin from Kennedy Violins – from the earliest beginning student to the advanced or professional performer. At Kennedy Violins, all violin outfits include a variety of the following, depending on which instrument you purchase: bow, case, strings and rosin. But, beyond the basics that come with every instrument, there are more options available.

What many people don’t realize is that they can improve the tonal quality of their instrument by making a small upgrade to a higher quality set of strings. For customers who order upgraded strings at the same time as their instrument, we can install the strings for you and provide the default strings as a back-up set. Our highest recommended strings are Helicore by D’Addario. While they have a steel core, they still produce a warm, clear sound. The steel core means that the strings will stay in tune and maintain a high level of performance for a longer period of time.

Shoulder rests are required by most teachers. Shoulder rests not only help fill the gap between the shoulder and the instrument, but they also promote proper posture. Good posture prevents aches, pains, and even injuries to the neck and back. The options for shoulder rests are vast. Younger students can get away with something simple like a shaped sponge held on with rubber bands. More advanced shoulder rests consist of a padded, curved bar that clamps around the lower bouts of the instrument. We recommend the Portland Acoustical Shoulder Rest. Not only does the curved wooden bar make it more visually appealing, but the maple also helps the sound carry while it resonates around the instrument.

Most people who are new to stringed instruments and live in drier climates do not realize that it is important to keep the instrument well humidified. Areas that get extremely cold and dry in the winter tend to be even drier, due to forced air heating systems. When the humidity level dips below the 40-50% range, instruments can suffer from going out of tune easily or having the back or belly panels separate from the sides. Damage to an instrument from low humidity levels can be easily prevented by using a humidifier, such as the Damp-It system. If your case didn’t come with a dial hygrometer, there is no need to worry. The Damp-It system comes with a simple color changing indicator and chart that will help you decide when the air is too dry.

Every teacher will be pleased with a student who owns a metronome to help them keep a steady beat while they practice. When you’re choosing a metronome, you should consider including a tuner as well. A good example of a metronome/tuner combination is Music Doctor TM-100D.

And, finally, a folding music stand is a great option for any musician.

Also, cellists – don’t forget an end pin anchor! As a teacher, I find that many beginning cello students who don’t have an end pin anchor continuously struggle unnecessarily.

As with any new venture, it is easier with the proper tools. Keep an eye out for upcoming blogs that will cover these accessories with more detail.