Violin/Viola Care & Maintenance Page

The Basics

Take Special Care

• Follow vour teacher's instructions when removing the instrument from the case.
• Protect your instrument from heat, cold, and quick changes in temperature.
• Always wipe off the instrument with a soft dry cloth. Be sure to remove all fingerprints and rosin.
• Place a cloth over the top of the violin before closing the case.

Posture & Holding Your Instrument

Many violin and viola players begin by playing their instrument in guitar position. As you learn the basics, your teacher will help you change to shoulder position.

Guitar Position

Step 1: Place the instrument case flat on the floor with the handle facing you. Open the case and lift the instrument up by the neck. Identify all parts of the violin.

Step 2: Cradle the violin under your right arm. Raise the scroll to shoulder height. Be sure the back of the violin is flat against your stomach.

Step 3: Identify the letter names of each string: G (lowest pitch), D, A, E.

Step 4: Raise your right thumb over the strings while continuing to hold the instrument. Pluck the strings as directed by your teacher. Plucking the strings is called pizzicato, and is abbreviated pizz.

Shoulder Position

Step 1: (Standing) - Stand with feet about a shoulder's width apart. (Sitting) - Sit on the front part of the chair.

Step 2: Turn your left foot to the 10 o'clock position. Slide your right foot back. Adjust your position to place more weight on your left foot.

Step 3: Hold your instrument at eye level parallel to the floor. Curve your left hand around the upper bout. Find the end button withyour right hand.

Step 4: Bring the instrument down to your shoulder. The end button should be near the middle of your neck. Turn your head slightly to the left, and place your jaw on the chin rest. Be sure the scroll does not point toward the floor.

Information above provided by Hal Leonard from the Essential Elements Methods Books.

Demonstration Videos

Violin Anatomy

Viola Anatomy

How To Rosin Your Bow

How to Hold Your Violin/Viola