The viola chin rest is used to remove the gap between the chin and neck where the instrument is held. Since no two player has the same measurement, it is important the tool is adjusted correctly so it can rest right. There was a time when the use of the face rest was not considered as necessary. However, it was found to be necessary to allow the player to play the more difficult pieces.

If installed properly, it creates no disturbance to the player during performance of the instrument. The appropriate placement of the support is determined by positioning it on the position it normally takes while performance is ongoing. You can use the help of a mirror to determine the correct position of the chin. This in turn defines the correct design of the support to buy. The cup location might be in the center or towards the right or left.

Place the accessory on the bottom end of the viola and follow the procedure for proper installation provided by the manufacturer. Slowly tighten the clamps of the piece. Be careful not to tighten it too much or the instrument may be damaged and will not sound right.

Test the position of the tool by playing a few notes. Adjust the positioning if you feel discomfort when performing with the instrument. If the tool is causing problems when you perform, determine the problem areas before an adjustment can be made. To do this, apply oil cream and spread it thinly in your chin.

Place the face on the rest and position it just like you would when playing. Hold the position of the face steady while you take away the instrument. Be careful not to disturb the mark made by the oil.

One adjustment is by shaving the piece of sharp edges to flatten it. Use a whittling knife or other knives that are sharp enough to shave but not cause irreparable damage to the support. Protect your hand with gloves and direct the shaving motion away from you. Continue shaving until all sharp areas are smoothed.

You can also place padding on the area of the piece to protect your facial bones from rubbing and hurting in it. A thick washcloth can be used. Cut several pieces in the same size big adequate to cover the hard surfaces. Attach the padding to the tool using a latex band.

If this does not work and the tool is still uncomfortable, use a moleskin instead of the cloth. It is a kind of foam that has an attached adhesive on one side. Cut a suitable piece that covers sufficiently all the surfaces in contact with the face and neck and attach it into the support.

Remove the protective covering of the side with adhesive and place it firmly on the surface of the piece. Apply pressure one minute to make certain it will stick. However, if continuous discomfort is still experienced, it is time to replace the viola chin rest with one of various make and design.