AboutDavid Expertise I mainly aim to answer questions about playing techniques--intonation,
vibrato, bowing etc. I am somewhat familiar with Baroque and Classical music, though not as much with Romantic. I am unable to answer questions about advanced music theory, violin crafters/brands or the monetary value of a violin.
Experience I have played the violin about nine discontinuous years. Most of my work has been orchestral, with some soloing throughout. I was principal 2nd violinist of the Disney Honors Orchestra in 1998, a six-time All-State Orchestra violinist, a two-time assistant concertmaster and two-time concertmaster of my All-County Orchestra. I also have perfect pitch, which I believe can be learned (though I do not claim to know how to teach it).
Since starting medical school in 2004, I have had fewer chances to play, but I hope to someday resume on a regular basis.
I`m wondering if you know of a way to get rid of "violin player`s hickey"? I`m tired of looking like someone held a vacuum cleaner to my neck on the place where my violin sits. Do you think I need a different chin rest? Thanks...
Tina
Answer Hi Tina, I know exactly what you're talking about, unfortunately to my knowledge the only way to get rid of the mark on your neck is to stop playing the violin for a time. At All-State, I have seen the best players with such marks, and to be honest I don't think I've ever seen a decent player without a mark! A different chin rest is not likely to change the problem other than to perhaps create a new mark. One thing that may reduce the problem is to cut small pieces of Dr. Scholls "Molefoam" and place them on the troublesome areas of the chin rest, a few players do this but it isn't exactly visually appealing, more like a last resort procedure. I think that the mark is mainly due to the existence of certain points of pressure from holding the violin up, something that is only natural when playing. In the meantime, if you're going out and don't want it to show, you might try make up, but then again being a guy means that make up is anything but my area of expertise, and as a woman I'm sure you already considered the idea.
Best wishes
David
