"With Nicky" - Equipment

This week, I’m talking all things equipment: strings, shoulder rests (yay!), chin rests, my bow, my beautiful pegs and the violin itself. We’ll also be looking inside my violin case…I’m not going to lie, it’s pretty messy!
Equipment is something that I have certainly obsessed over a lot in the past and as much as I advocate for methodical and thorough experimentation with bows, chin rests, shoulder rests, strings etc. in order to find the combination that works best for you, I have also come to realise that at some point, you just have to let it all go and focus as much as possible on your physical and mental well being in your practise.
Try to be intelligent, be logical, but don’t fixate on it.
The videos have been generously supported by ESTA UK, MiSST - The Andrew Lloyd Webber Programme, and Oasby Music Group and I am very grateful for their support.
Huge thanks to our media partners Classic FM, The Strad, The Violin Channel and WQXR who will be sharing the videos with their audiences each week when released.
Finally, these videos wouldn’t have been possible without an amazing team: Scott Jaeger, our film maker, Laura Gardiner, our Education Manager, Rebecca Driver, PR Manager and Hannah King, Online Media Manager. I want to say a huge thank you to all four of them for being with me on this journey.
Nicky
Film produced by www.jaegerfilm.com
Time Codes:
00:37 - Violin
02:20 - My Shoulder Rest
02:43 - Shoulder Rests
06:06 - Chin Rest Cover
07:39 - Bow
09:04 - Violin Case
12:02 - Strings
14:30 - Nicky’s Moral of the Story
Links from the video:
Libero Shoulder Rest - this can be purchased from many places, but as an example: www.thomann.de/gb/libero_delu...
Nicola Benedetti - Glazunov’s Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 82: 1 Moderato - • Nicola Benedetti - Gla...
Bow Hold Support - www.medisave.co.uk/3m-coban-s...
Guillaume Rosin - an example: luthiervidal.com/en/violins-a...
Nicola Benedetti plays Prokofiev Violin Sonata No. 1 - • Nicola Benedetti and A...
Jargar Strings: www.jargar-strings.com/
Evah Pirazzi Strings: www.pirastro.com/public_piras...

[@raybede]

I think Nikki must be one of the nicest self effacing and talented musicians on the current scene. She gives so much of herself to the music and to helping the young and upcoming musicians. She is a delight and each concert I have watched is a aural and soulful experience Thank you Nicola

[@Skinny_Karlos]

It's very rare, or seems so, to find a down-to-earth, 'real' person behind all that talent and hard work that has got you to the top of the heap of violin soloists. Really enjoyed your video and was sad when it ended. I'll be looking out for your performances on KZbin. Keep on bowing, Nicki. From Mark in Australia.

[@garykuovideos]

It’s oddly reassuring to know that we’re all searching for the perfect setup, even superstar, other worldly players with jaw-dropping technique and tone.

[@christianlewisphotography6910]

For such a talented musician it’s great how you share your time and how you use your violin.

[@thatonespaniard6509]

It's an absolute pleasure to see that musicians show us their equipment and communicate with us.

[@harveybrown37]

All are born talented. Nicola is accomplished, which is talent plus hard work and intelligent, sensitive thought.

[@paddlepower888]

Great wisdom and truth in the last minute: it often isn't the equipment--it's us. Thanks.

[@polw3785]

Apart from being an extraordinary violinist/musician you seem so balanced, wonderfully comfortable in your own skin and so generous in spirit. What a delight you are. Thanks Nicky

[@jessejojojohnson]

That snickers bar in your case has given me all the confidence I need. Thank you!

[@leahhamdaoui7755]

what a well spent 16 minutes and 38 seconds ... and always fascinating to see what people have in their violin cases :-)

[@garysimkins2179]

Dear Nicola, I have taken up the violin recently after having played the cello for some time. I started late on Cello, at 31, and have loved it. In high school music class when I was about 16, I was assigned the violin, but never took it serious enough having always wanted to play the cello. Now, I have embarked on this journey to try to play this wonderful instrument. What I find most engaging is that you are such a humble and down to earth person, and it really inspires me to really work. I have a great teacher and a lovely reproduction of the Abergavenny Strad, by Ernst Heinrich Roth, made in 1924. With regards to strings, I use the Larson Il Canone Soloist, and I absolutely love them, and thought perhaps you might find them a good try on your Strad. I have Eva Pirazi Golds on an 18th century Viennese instrument, but find that they loose their lustre in a couple of months. Having said all of that, I just want to thank you for all of your wonderful videos, and your amazing performances. With warm regards, from Gary in Canada.

[@user-do5hd7zb4x]

Your mighty generous wuth sharing all this, I feel extremely blessed and privalwdged for your sharing thank you.❤

[@oscarcarvalho6376]

You are the best for giving us all this!! Thanks!!

[@kacsblanka]

You are wonderful !!!😍

[@DavidDellman]

The most honest and helpful video on this subject I have seen to date. Thank you so much. I loved it

[@janiceallan2981]

So interesting. Thank you!

[@carolineandtigger]

I like your shoulder rest. Very nice. Thank you for sharing.

[@kellenbetty]

Thank you for being extraordinarily honest and sharing so many valuable experiences. Thank you again !

[@antonioromera8880]

Thank you for all your observations and advices. It’s so great learning from such a superb artist. Sharing your thoughts and experiences is a great present. Thank you very much!! 😊

[@mapa6772]

Lovely, Nicky. Great video.

[@megabugginout]

Now I don’t feel weird…thanks for this🙏

[@user-do5hd7zb4x]

7 47 pm Aug.11,2023 HI Nicola, for some unexplained reason I brought out my VIOLIN under my trailer awning and did my best to play perpetual motion. A neighbor apparently heard me and indicated that he liked what I was doing. I practiced my a string vibrato a little and made some other noises and packed it in. Thank you for these beautiful videos I am ever greatful for your thorough instruction.c.e.in usa😅

[@user-do5hd7zb4x]

You r😊early have made a large impression on me, if not for you my VIOLIN might well remain in its case, you have given me confidence! Thank you Nicola, blessed angel of the violin.c.e.usa

[@hilaryhahnisthebest]

Really really good! Thanks

[@neilkenny9005]

Not just a great musician but a brilliant teacher and someone to aspire to. Thank you for your interactivity!

[@intento3inflexible]

Thank you again Nicky! You are helping a lot of musicians include me!💖💖💖

[@mariolastepaniuk4957]

Very Helpful, thank you Nicola! 🙌💛

[@brucejoseph8367]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and great knowledge on equipment. It's reasuring to know that you have similar experiences to us amateur players.

[@gailvcrawford2476]

THANKYOU 🤗

[@MatthiasLenardt]

Really good. Thank you!

[@philipgregorysougles1744]

Much appreciated!!

[@subdrvr]

I confess this is my first viewing of you. I have known about you for some time but havent searched for more of you until now. You are adorable, one hot mess. I love your frankness and genuine personable character. I am going to watch for more of you. Well done you.

[@OneLoneMan]

I guess I'm luck the violin I have fits like a glove.

[@iamhandsome6058]

This is the best channel for all violinist. I love your videos..

[@mariapre-di6835]

Wonderful video! Thank you! "Equipment is important to take seriously but do not obsessed over it" It's true.

[@rfhundley]

You are just amazing! Such a wonderful player, a good person interested in teaching and mentoring, and on these KZbin videos you are so open to sharing and being funny. Thank you!

[@Louise-zs9rl]

Excellent, thank you for posting Nicola.

[@KikePinto]

Amazing! Not just a great musician but also an extraordinary human being! Bravo maestra!

[@danwingham9590]

Your awesome !!!

[@user-dy8tn3mo7c]

A very cheerful ,life giving woman . A very good violinist too ! That's why I like her a lot !

[@opulentminimalist7595]

Thanks for bringing us into your musical world, and an intimate look inside your violin case. You are a hoot, and my favorite violin tutor. Your videos are wonderful. Thank you!🦋

[@M.Smith1]

Wonderful video, Nicky!

[@twokool4skool129]

She plays with a Strad? Talk about a humble flex.

[@cathschofield674]

I’m not a violinist but I found that absolutely fascinating. The very good advice regarding obsessing about equipment holds true for all instruments of course.

[@kallievandermerwe2574]

Nicky! I am a 73 year old guitar player (I hope - eventually!), but that last bit of advice blew me away. A million thanks for that! 😍

[@mikhael4]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge :')

[@dayaneoliveira1122]

God bless you for this video!! I've been dying to know what shoulder rest you use, and everything else! 🙏🏼🙏🏼 Apart from the incredibly useful information, I also feel like I'd love to have a friend like you! 😊❤️

[@davidluiz4732]

Obrigado, por compartilhar conosco ... Algumas particularidades !!!

[@JacquesLuu]

Love hearing Nicola Benedetti talking about her strings ;p

[@icemonkeyfist]

nicely done. You really gave some great insights into equipment without making it sound like voodoo or like rocket science. You explained it is "real people" terms in a way that cold be helpful whatever your field of endeavor. A great listen/view/lesson!

[@stephenneff5123]

Wonderful! Thank you for taking the time to share you experience and knowledge? For an adult learner like me, it is a special treat when a world class player, especially one of my favorites, shares their advice.

[@janisremiesiewicz3547]

I started playing at 55 years of age. My amazing instructor is younger than my eldest son. And to be amazingly blessed by KZbin/Facebook and social media, to be able to learn from the GREATS like Nicola? What a wonderful time we live in. Thank you Nicola, for your patience and professionalism!

[@TheDaffygluk]

Very good advice thank you

[@bellasaward8330]

You would NOT want to drop that baby! Holy Mozart! 😍😍😍 🎻

[@rogberube6422]

Thanks for sharing your helpful hints, Nicola. :)

[@TheOwenValentine]

Thank you 🙏🏽🙏🏽🦋🎻🎻🎻

[@Finarphin]

I play viola, and use a so-called viola valet: it's a harness that fits over the viola body and attaches to a counterweight. I've found it not only allows me to have the viola sit on my shoulder all by itself, but it takes away a lot of the tension that might otherwise be there in my neck and shoulders.

[@melissat9120]

Wow, it is so wonderful to hear your personal thoughts on setup! It was encouraging for me to hear all of this because I, too, used to obsess over setup. I even added the same bow grippy material at one point! And I also have a huge bag of old shoulder rests and sponges which I carved myself with an electric kitchen knife. 😂 But I totally believe in your conclusions. At some point, the focus needs to change. After time, I found that letting go and focusing on the music actually allowed my body to relax and play more naturally than if I was obsessing about an angle of something. Anyway, thank you so much for opening up and sharing your insights with us! ❤️💕

[@scottrichard5792]

Hi Melissa! Trust you’re doing well with your instruments after this insight. Would be glad to know about your flow😊

[@tullochgorum6323]

The other equipment issue to bear in mind is the setup of your fiddle - a poor setup can doom you to frustration. I'm a late adult starter, and got stuck with certain techniques. I was lucky enough to pick up a very good modern instrument and had just assumed the set up was OK. But it recently needed a small repair, and the luthier pointed out various aspects of the setup he thought he could improve. I gave him the green light, and the effect is dramatic. The tone is even better, and the playability is absolutely transformed - it's hard to overstate just how much easier it is to play. A mere few hours later I'm executing stuff with ease that I had almost given up on. So unless you are very confident that you setup is optimal, I STRONGLY recommend that you find an expert and have it assessed. In my case it didn't even cost much, and it's hugely enriched my playing experience - I'm having so much fun I can barely put my fiddle down.

[@carmenrodriguezbruna5091]

Id love to give you one of my silk bags to protect your beautiful Strad!

[@authenticationstation2041]

Great video!

[@DivaDeb1234]

I can't get comfortable . The better I get, the more tension !!!

[@bcwilliams9242]

Very Cool!

[@barriereid9244]

I recently bought a cello bow grip from The String Zone as my thumb was in torture. It now allows me to bow without having to focus on the pain arriving...and therefore shortening my practice. Yo Yo Mah uses same.

[@TheJensenInterceptor]

Fabulous

[@MaguitaAguilar]

💕💕💕💕💕

[@andreshm87]

'... it's really squishy!' *puts it back in the case* That really made me laugh :) Thanks for all the videos you've made. I've watched several and apart from being truly inspirational, you've really helped me to understand and develop my sound. Really, thank you!

[@EudoraPrice]

Wonderful info ! Oh my So many Sponge was terrible for me!

[@abdellatifbajou8612]

merci nicky pour cette video is good

[@mikeciaudzul1923]

I love this video tu Nicky

[@basiaszendrei1603]

Greetings and fit like from Aberdeen :)

[@masterchief586]

I use a Musafia case myself. Absolutely the very best case out there. 😊

[@checkmate545]

The most relaxed and down to earth musician in the world. It's very refreshing, to finally come across a star like Nicola, who is not selling her body (like most do) or flaunt it for financial gain or likes. I can't wait for the day when you team up with Jacob Collier for a 'ho down' track 💖

[@EudoraPrice]

Wonderful 🌹🌺🌷💐💐

[@sgtcrab2569]

Isn't Nicky the most fun person! Great vid. I scrape at Cape Breton Traditional playing and settled on Obbligato which everyone else hates!

[@bellasaward8330]

I’m going to get back into playing while my body copes with its Long Covid; I contracted the virus over a year ago and it is still waging war on my body, psyche, and everything in between. I’m going mad not being able to do anything. My mind loves learning and I need to reclaim _something_ in my life. This is it. This is what I’m going to take back.

[@lorendisney6573]

You are so sweet and lucky I have been playing for 2 years still trying

[@waverly2468]

I didn't know there were so many brands of strings. I studied violin in college and then I gave it up for 30 years. When I picked it up again I couldn't believe how much the price of strings went up so I'm using steel strings purchased from Amazon ($20 for four strings). The good news is steel strings sound a lot better than they did 30 years ago. (watch my video "Orville theme played on violin") And thanks for all of the great practice tips.

[@resharpsharpening3024]

Yes shoulder rest ! Been using a Bonmusica for a while now. It’s the best one I’ve used so far. Your Libero seems impossible to find. Thanks for doing these videos

[@orlamuc]

you can find it on amazon!

[@aragorn4242]

amazing view of a superstar musician being a normal person !

[@koeutthom9563]

I saw you at Headway 4th elementary. So i try to search about you to tell my English students.

[@gabrielcayer2705]

Oh dang I want that collarbone cover thing. Basically I want a concert that doesn't go over my chin rests.

[@mactcampbell]

Hello Nicky: Great channel and tutorials. If you are going to mention strings again, I was wondering if you could talk a bit on cleaning them. Also what happens after they are cleaned. It seems to me that the pitch goes up as the rosin accumulates.

[@TheYim000000]

Moreover, for the wood part of the bow's frog, if it sting on your right thumb, you can ask a professional to polish it (flatten it a bit). I did it by myself as my bow is not too expensive.

[@ps7880]

Great video, truly enjoy watching it! I’m thinking of getting a Pirastro Korfker rest, and you have it in your shoulder rest collections. I was wondering what prevents you from using it? Thanks.

[@lesstime1678]

very smart girl , nice video ,thanks girl

[@lorengigi3564]

Ms. Benedetti, your videos really inspire me to be more devoted to practicing the violin and push my standards high. Before a performance, is there a time when you get worried about technique? At home I do many exercises from my fingers to get strong, and I was taught that confident technique really comes after hours of time practicing. I was wondering if there is a chance of still feeling uneasy about technique in a performance after practicing them the right way. Thank you very much.

[@ladelcolectivo]

I also have a bunch of shoulder rests. To my student currently, specially with kids and small, short ladies, I am using sponges, because I can cut them to their sizes. But it's been a struggle ever since... It's like most SR are perfect for tall, wide shoulders men, but terrible for narrow shoulders, short necks, kids and women. A headache.

[@MartinPodholaMlok]

Great video thanks! My biggest trouble was (I hope it is over) with chinrests, I have a "small" collection of chinrests. I have a really short neck, and every chinrest I tried was digging into my jaw bone with the sharp edge of the hump on the side. I was trying to manage it. My wife has on her violin one really flat and small, almost on the wood of the instrument, and this one is amazing! But I was unable to find thing like this for months. At last, I found a flat but bigger one in one shop from abroad. I ordered another one, and it is working for me now, perfectly, I hope I will stay with it, it is beautiful handmade ebony one :)

[@makddoonnaa]

I think one of the possible solution is trying a taller chin rest

[@NicolaBenedettiOfficial]

Martin Podhola Experimenting with the heights of chin and shoulder rests is always a good idea to find what is most comfortable for you.

[@MartinPodholaMlok]

@@NicolaBenedettiOfficial Yes and also a great challenge to do :) and Your feeling is also changing with the time ... so many things

[@lehinsaragon8800]

Awesome video!!! Thank you for all the good information. Question, how after do you change your strings?

[@NicolaBenedettiOfficial]

That really depends on how many concerts I’ve been doing, what repertoire I’ve been playing and when I feel like they have lost their sparkle.

[@iainjmcclure]

I remember when I heard about a young Girl from West Kilbride winning young musician of the year award. I was going to give her my grandfathers violin. He made them in his shed in Beith. Glad I didnt it would have gathered dust lol Not quite a 1717 Stradivarius.

[@agusc.2992]

Hi, Nicky! Thank you so much for these videos, they have been very useful and practical for my study. I was wondering if you could make another one on how to play chords on the violin, I'm working on it right now and it's so frustating, I'm not sure I'm doing it right, my bow keeps bouncing on the string :(

[@NicolaBenedettiOfficial]

Agustina Oh yes, chords is definitely on the list of films we’ll be sharing at some point!

[@sarahsilvere]

Loved this video!!! Thank you for sharing and giving this wonderful message about being humble about what equipment is at the end of the day 🥰 ps: where is your lovely bracelet from?

[@colinwrubleski7627]

"Peg-dope" is the expression Canuckistanian violins / violists use for the item Ms. Benedetti initially could not identify...^^

[@MagicalMusic34]

Wow! That’s a lot of shoulder rests, honey! Haha!

[@janisremiesiewicz3547]

It’s appalling to me that 17 people dislike any video you make Nicola!! But there are stupids all over the world. LOL! You are beautiful, talented and very highly blessed!

[@dsokind]

Hi Nicky, thanks so much. If they get the Strad on loan back which is the violin you are left with, the one you really own?

[@momz42]

Hi Nicky! Thank you so much for your videos! I'm a beginner, picking it up again! Did you name the violin?

[@PaulHuppert]

Nicely done, your lovely playing is matched by your equally lovely personality! Great advice regarding making thoughtful and not erratic spur of the moment decision making. Do you have any thoughts regarding bow weight?

[@michelelaraia7358]

La FolLia=The craziness

[@SamanthaHallam]

Thanks for another great video, you’re so friendly it’s really refreshing; just a really nice person. I’m a little obsessive about sound and the quality, okay a lot and I can’t bear it when I’m practising my vibrato and the sound is horrible. I wonder is it my strings, my bow, my arm, my wrist!! I watched this and saw your collections of various equipment and was wondering, when it comes to strings do you have a preference of gut strings or steel? I remember being taught with gut strings and I loved them. I currently use steel but I’m considering swapping. Is it personal or does it depend on the piece you’re practising? Thanks.

[@scottrichard5792]

I think it depends on you as an individual and it definitely requires much practice to reach an exquisite state of play.

[@istvannagycsomor230]

Can you tell what kind of chin rest do you use? Many thanks!

[@peterlhawks]

Has anyone tried the Gamut Academie Pure, Naked Gut Strings? If so, how was your experience? Also, what type of range and selections did you add on to the strings?

[@alichisholm]

Great series. Thanks so much! Do you call your violin Gary?