1 mins
NEW PRODUCTS
PRACTICE GLOVE
A helping hand
A glove to improve left-hand technique at all levels
It was the versatile fingers of his former classmate Shlomo Mintz, and the full hands of Itzhak Perlman, that inspired former professional orchestral violinist Peter Kaman’s new invention: the VioGlove. This fingerless, spandex, Velcro-secured accessory wraps tightly around the left hand in order, says the American violin enthusiast, to improve strength and stability for all string players. Its padded-out microfibre palm, he claims, encourages separation between the hand and the instrument neck, prevents players from clamping down on the fingerboard and helps to keep the fingers tension-free. He has also added extra material between the fingers to keep them apart and encourage greater freedom, and has slightly extended the material at the base of the index finger, to provide a low-friction aide to help players to shift.
This invention has inevitably caused some controversy in the string world: playing accurately, with full control of one’s sound and intonation, might be more difficult rather than less with hand-altering padding in the way. Kaman is not blind to the questions that the VioGlove raises, but he is adamant that the glove is beneficial and its material too thin to be obtrusive.
FEATURED PRODUCT
He encourages violinists, violists and cellists of all levels to test it in the practice room and concert hall alike, and remains passionately convinced that his creation is worth a try by anyone with an open, inquisitive mind.
Peter Kaman VioGlove sizes XS–XXL (palm circumference 16.5cm–22.4cm) $29.95 email web vioglove1@gmail.comwww.vioglove.com
PAINTBRUSH
BRUSHING UP
Schilbach’s new Rubens Kolinsky gold-plated paintbrush comprises a brush with a detachable handle that doubles as a travel case. It is made from fine kolinsky hair, chosen for its elastic, absorbent qualities and shaped into a fine point for precision work when varnishing and retouching instruments.
Schilbach Rubens Kolinsky gold-plated paintbrush travel set from €22.35
email shop@schilbach.net
web www.shop-schilbach.net
VIOLIN CASE
HISTORY REVISITED
Cremona-based violin and viola case maker Musafia has released the fifth series of its Aeternum violin case, enhanced with Kevlar. The range’s characteristic straight-sided and rounded-end design, based on the 18th-century violin case, now includes more room, a full-length rain flap, large sheet music pocket and GPS tracker. The interior is available in seven colours and its cover is made from nylon and leather.
Musafia Aeternum Series violin case from €1,357
email
info@musafia.com
web www.musafia.com