JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.

Orchestral String Instrument Shoulder Rests

Shop Shoulder Rests at West Music

Orchestral shoulder rests are designed to follow the natural curve of the uppermost body, providing comfort as a player performs. By adding height and soft padding to control the instrument's weight, West Music's hand-chosen viola and violin shoulder rests are essential for any serious orchestral musician â€“ whether beginner or professional. We understand that development depends on comfort, so we're proud to carry some of the best supports from Basic Beat, Kun and Everest, sold in an assortment of sizes to fit a wide range of instrumentalists. Give your growing musicians the products they deserve with shoulder rests for violas and violins from West Music.

*If you cannot view the products in this category, please click here

Your network or browser security settings may be blocking products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network and default browser).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

Call us M-F 9am - 5pm CST to place your order over the phone at 1-800-397-9378.
Shop via a different browser and/or network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).
Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist our js.klevu.com
You can also access our digital catalog here to find and add items to your cart (product pages will load normally).
- Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product
- Click a link to navigate the product page
- And add it to your cart!
You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number( i.e. "123456") to the end of our URL (i.e. westmusic.com/123456).

If you cannot view the products in this category, PLEASE CLICK HERE

Your network or browser security settings may be blocking the products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

1. To place your order over the phone, call us Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm CST at 1-800-397-9378.

2. Shop via a different browser or network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).

3. Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist js.klevu.com.

4. You can also click here to access our digital catalog. Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product, click a link to navigate the product detail page (product pages will load normally), and add it to your cart. You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number (i.e. "400278") to the end of our URL (i.e. Westmusic.com/400278).

Shoulder Rests for String Instruments

In orchestral string instruments, the shoulder rest is pivotal in ensuring player comfort, improving instrument hold, and enhancing sound quality. From the nuanced needs of viola players to the specific demands of violinists, shoulder rests have evolved to meet various ergonomic and acoustic requirements. Among the notable innovations is the violin shoulder rest Everest, known for its durability and comfort; the Kun shoulder rest for violins, celebrated for its adjustability and support; and the practicality of collapsible shoulder rests for musicians on the go. Let's explore how these essential accessories, including the versatile poly pad and specialized shoulder rest viola, contribute to mastering string instruments.

Bridge Between Player and Instrument

A shoulder rest is more than a simple accessory; it's an instrument extension that bridges the gap between the player's physique and the violin or viola's structure. By providing a secure and comfortable contact point, shoulder rests allow musicians to maintain proper posture without excessive tension. This balance is crucial for comfort during long practice sessions and performances and for preventing strain and injury over time. Two options for shoulder rests are a poly pad and a collapsible shoulder rest.

Poly Pad: Simple and Versatile

The poly pad represents simplicity and versatility in shoulder rest design. Made from soft, durable materials, poly pads offer a cushioned layer between the instrument and the player's shoulder, reducing discomfort and slippage without the complexity of mechanical adjustments. This type of shoulder rest appeals to players looking for a straightforward, low-profile solution that still delivers comfort and stability.

Collapsible Shoulder Rest: Portable Solution

The collapsible shoulder rest presents a perfect solution for the traveling musician, combining functionality with portability. These rests can be easily folded into a case or bag, making them ideal for frequently moving performers. Despite their compact design, collapsible shoulder rests do not compromise on the support and comfort they provide, making them a favorite among students and professionals alike. Some great brands to consider for collapsible shoulder rests are Everest and Kun.

Everest Shoulder Rest: Ergonomic Design

The Everest shoulder rest for violin stands out for its ergonomic design and reliability. Crafted to follow the natural curve of the shoulder, it offers players a comfortable, stable foundation that enhances the violin's position and playability. Everest's popularity lies in its combination of a robust and durable frame with a soft, grippy contact surface, ensuring that the instrument remains securely in place even during the most dynamic performances.

Kun Shoulder Rest: Precision Adjustability

The Kun shoulder rest for violins is renowned for its precision adjustability and superior support. Offering a range of height and width settings, the Kun shoulder rest allows violinists to tune their instrument's fit to their body finely. This level of customization improves the player's comfort and aids in achieving optimal sound projection and tonal clarity by allowing the violin to resonate freely.

Specialized Shoulder Rests for Viola

Be sure to double-check your shoulder rest if purchasing for Viola. Viola players grappling with an instrument that is larger and often more cumbersome than the violin require a shoulder rest that offers tailored support. The shoulder rest for the viola is designed to accommodate the instrument's unique dimensions, providing ample height and width adjustments. This customization ensures that violists can achieve the ideal playing position, facilitating ease of movement across the strings and enhancing the instrument's natural resonance.

Enhancing Musician Experience with Shoulder Rests

The development of shoulder rests for orchestral string instruments signifies a commitment to enhancing the musician's experience, marrying comfort with performance. Whether it's the personalized fit of a shoulder rest viola, the cushioned simplicity of a poly pad, the ergonomic excellence of an Everest or Kun shoulder rest, or the practicality of a collapsible design, these accessories play a crucial role in the playing posture and technique of string musicians. By selecting the proper shoulder rest, players can enjoy extended comfort, improved technique, and the pure joy of making music, free from the constraints of discomfort and strain.

Stabilize your violin or viola while simultaneously ensuring the most comfortable playing angle with an orchestral shoulder rest. While playing without one is possible, many musicians like the additional height of the shoulder rest, and find it easier and more comfortable to use one. These supports reduce muscle strain in the neck or shoulder that often occurs when youâ€™re forced to hold your violin or viola, and can make playing easier by freeing up the thumb and allowing for greater finger mobility.

West Music understands that comfort depends on quality, so weâ€™re proud to carry shoulder rests from some of the top brands in the industry including Everest, Basic Beat, and Bentota. Available in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors, these products are sure to fit a range of budgets and needs for players of all abilities and ages.