Holding the Violin Without Using the Shoulder-Rest

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In this video, I demonstrate how I hold the violin without the help of a shoulder-rest. While holding a violin without use of a shoulder-rest may not be for everyone, it allows those who can get used to it a sense of extra freedom while holding the violin. In my case it helps me be more expressive and relaxed. In my early studies I was using a shoulder-rest but felt locked into one position which actually limited my movement enough to hold me back. When I got rid of the shoulder-rest and learned to relax without it I felt free. Remember not to lift your left shoulder and relax completely.