Choosing the right endpin can significantly impact your comfort and performance. Whether you opt for a bent or straight endpin, here’s what you need to know to make the best choice for your playing style.
1. Bent Endpins: Bent endpins relieve pressure on the chest but can be less stable. To stabilize the cello, make sure the endpin is long enough that the cello is resting on the knees. It’s beneficial to study with a teacher who has experience with bent-endpin technique. The cello position with a bent endpin is completely different from that with a straight endpin. The cellist sits against the back of the chair, and the instrument faces forward with no tilt. Body weight is channeled differently into the bow arm, and the fingerboard is more parallel to the floor compared to using a straight endpin.
2. Straight Endpins Fully Extended: When fully extended, straight endpins press more of the cello’s weight against the chest, which can be uncomfortable. To mitigate this, keep your knees behind the cello to provide additional support.
3. Straight Endpins at a Shorter Length: Short endpins help you control the instrument without feeling overwhelmed, offering a balanced approach to playing. When using a short endpin, the cello can tilt slightly to the right, providing easier access to the A string.
Stringvision Keypegs allow the cellist to sit upright comfortably without the C-string peg obstructing their position. Consult your luthier for purchase and installation.
Expert Tip
If you’re using a straight endpin and experiencing discomfort, try having the endpin installed at a slight angle, with the spike pointed toward the floor. It relieves pressure and is less likely to slip, enhancing your overall playing experience.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your training and personal preferences. After exploring all options, I reverted to my original training: a straight endpin slightly longer than the span of my outstretched hand, from the tip of my thumb to the tip of my pinky.
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