There are some pieces of equipment that you just can’t do your job without. You need your tools of the trade! Playing a string instrument is no different! In this article we’ll break down the 17 must-have accessories for string players that every serious player should have in their arsenal.
Bags
Carrying cases
Whichever string instrument you play, you’ll need a secure, sturdy case to carry it around in.
I recommend Bam cases, who provide cases for violin, viola, cello and double bass. These cases are very robust and will certainly protect your instrument against any knocks. They are a little more expensive than some other brands or a gig bag, but you won’t regret spending the money to protect your most prized possession.
COMES WITH: Sturdy Case
FEATURES: Very strong, reliable cases. Will keep your instrument safe-which is all that matters!
Bam 2000XL violin case
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- very robust and will keep your instrument safe
- stylish design
- compact cases
- Higher price than some other brands
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Case wheels
If you’re a double bassist, it’s likely you’ll need a wheel or buggy to help you move your instrument around without injuring yourself. They are also a good way to prevent damage to your bass. We’d recommend a Xeros Bass Transport Wheel. This fits into your endpin socket and will significantly simplify your commute, or between lessons for students.
COMES WITH: 10mm Diameter Suitable for Full Size Basses
FEATURES: Simple Connection to Your Bass for Instant Use
Xeros Bass Transport Wheel
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Low cost
- Will prevent injury and damage to your instrument
- Valve to pump up tyre
- May need replacing after lots of use
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
In-case humidifier
Humidifiers are a great way to ensure that your instrument will not dry out in the warmer months. This will prevent damage and cracks appearing in the wood. The brand we recommend is ‘Dampit’. This is a rubber hose with a water absorbing sponge. They are not expensive, and we advise every string player to purchase one!
COMES WITH: Humidity card
FEATURES: Can also improve your instrument's tone
Dampit humidifier
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy to use
- Will prevent injury and damage to your instrument
- Can require a lot of soaking initially
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
We also suggest purchasing a hygrometer to use in conjunction with your Dampit. This device lives in your case and gives you both the temperature and humidity of the environment your instrument is living in, meaning you can maintain ideal conditions. The Stretto hygrometer/thermometer is our recommendation for an easy to use device.
COMES WITH: High/low temperatures sets
FEATURES: Internal clock records time of minimum/maximum temperature or humidity
Stretto digitalhygrometer/
thermometer
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy to use
- Can set levels for minimum/maximum temperature or humidity
- Will require you to replace batteries
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Maintenance kits
I'd recommend the following items in order to maintain your instrument.
Rosin
No string player could live without a tub of good quality rosin for them to apply to their bow in their hour of need! This is another one of the must haves. There are many brands available for each instrument, but my choice (for all instruments) is the D’Addario Kaplan. This rosin provides a warm, bright sound and only requires a few strokes, unlike some brands which require hours of application!
COMES WITH: Premium case that is designed for one-handed use
FEATURES: The original low-dust recipe handed down from Ladislav Kaplan
D'Addario Kaplan
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Amazing Case
- Low Dust
- A Pleasure To Use
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: Premium Case
USES: The original recipe handed down from Ladislav Kaplan
D'Addario Kaplan Dark Rosin
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Amazing Case
- Low Dust
- A Pleasure To Use
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Dry cloth
Of course, rosin can build up on your instrument and this requires removal by a cloth which will not damage the wood. You should clean your instrument every time you put it back in its case in order to maintain cleanliness – this will also improve the sound as dirt will not build up. The Music Nomad cleaning cloth is a microfiber cloth which can be used on your instrument, strings or bow and is very soft, so will not damage your precious instrument.
SIZE: 12" x 12"
FEATURES: Non-linting and stitch free material
Music Nomad Microfiber Polishing Cloth
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Will clean your instrument effectively without causing damage
- Stylish design
- Just works really well!
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
As well as a cloth to remove dirt and rosin, you’ll also require a good quality varnish cleaner, to ensure that your instrument remains shiny and looks its best. We’d recommend Hill & Sons Varnish Cleaner, as it’s cheap, very effective and will remove any dirt or fingerprints, leaving an attractive glow on your instrument.
FEATURES: Easy to apply to your instrument
Hill & Sons varnish cleaner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Will not damage the wood
- Will improve your instrument’s sound and look
- Only available in a small bottle (25ml)
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Every string player must have a spare set of strings handy in case of disaster! It’s a necessity. There are so many options available for each instrument, but I have chosen D’Addario Helicore as our favourite. These strings have a bright, penetrating sound without the metallic colour of some other brands. They fit well in terms of price between the expensive strings, and the cheap nasty strings; and the sound they produce is worth more than their cost in my opinion.
INCLUDES: All strings set
D'Addario Helicore
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- High quality strings
- Professional standard sound
- Higher price
- Sound can worsen quickly if used a lot
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tuning and rhythm
The following are two accessories which are very useful for your practice sessions. Some are available as free apps instead of purchasing the accessories – but to be honest, the accessories will always provide a better experience…
Tuner
The first thing every musician (including beginners) has to do before they practice is check their tuning. If you have an electronic tuner, this is quick and easy.
The Swiff C2 Violin Clamp chromatic tuner clips onto your instrument and listens to you play each string, before the LCD screen shows you how much you need to sharpen or flatten the note. It’s easy to use and won’t break the bank.
INCLUDES: 180 Degree Tuner Axis
Swiff C2 Violin Clamp
chromatic tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy to use compared to other tuners
- Stylish display
- Batteries will need replacing
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Metronome
Many musicians spend hours practicing slowly, then gradually speed up to concert tempo. For this, you’ll need a good quality, easy to use metronome. I recommend buying the Korg MA-2 metronome. It is cheap, easy to use and has a clear display,
COMES WITH: A larger and more easily readable display
FEATURES: Timer, enhanced volume, and a useful 'sound-out' mode
Korg MA-2 metronome
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Has a Tap Tempo function, making it super easy to use
- Earphone jack with adjustable volume
- Stylish display
- Compact - so easy to travel
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
The next two accessories are just for violin and viola players, as they are for instruments which you play under your chin. Cellists and double bassists fear not; the section after is just for you!
Chin rest
Almost all violin and viola players use chinrests, and these can be adjusted depending on what position you require on your instrument, or how tall you are. Many brands are available, but we recommend Wittner chin rests. These are affordable, anti-allergy, flexible and particularly useful for those violinists with longer necks.
COMES WITH: Screwdriver included for quick and easy installation
FEATURES: Excellent German quality craftsmanship - built with precision
Wittner Anti-Allergy
chin rest
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Particularly useful if you want a central chinrest
- Can require some adjustment before use
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Shoulder rest
Shoulder rests are available in all shapes and sizes, so it can be difficult choosing the right one. The price of good shoulder rests vary greatly and you could spend a lot of money before finding a comfortable option. My choice is the Kun shoulder rest. This is a great option for those wishing to purchase a stylish, sound-enhancing shoulder rest which won’t cost too much.
COMES WITH: Strong thermoplastic frame with a soft sponge rubber pad
FEATURES: Fully adjustable for height with a contoured shape
Kun
Shoulder Rest
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Ergonomic shape and easy to attach
- Stylish design
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Endpin stop or anchor
As promised, we now have a product which cellists and bassists will require to simplify their musical life considerably
There are so many different designs of spike holders or anchors available and it can be difficult knowing where to start looking. The key is to find one which will protect the surface you’re playing on, without compromising your instrument’s sound. The Rayzm cello spike holder is a great buy; it’s adjustable, portable and secure.
MADE OF: Solid maple wood, the bottom side is covered with 3 mm thick EVA
FEATURES: Strap adjustable length: 38 - 69 cm
rayzm cello non-skid
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Reliable - won't slip
- Easy to use
- Fully adjustable
- Small to transport
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: Belts and Strings Around Chair Legs
FEATURES: Uses non slip technology
BLACK HOLE
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Small, compact size
- Easy to use
- Only suitable for small endpins
- Not reliable on all floors
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
String Mutes
Practice mutes are designed to quieten your sound when practicing so as not to disturb neighbors, for example. They are larger and heavier than concert mutes. We recommend the Primavera Ultra practice mutes, as these are affordable and very effective.
COMES WITH: The mute by Primavera can be located on the bridge over the strings.
FEATURES: Uses non slip technology
Primavera Ultra practice mute
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Very affordable
- Compact
- Can rattle in between the bridge and tailpiece if not secured
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
MUSIC STAND
There are many sheet music stands available to purchase, but it’s important to find one which is light, robust and affordable. This Cahaya stand is a great option. Portable, sturdy and adjustable, this is a great buy.
INCLUDES: Light | Carry Case | Sheet Music Clip
FEATURES: A carrying bag and a sheet music folder
Cahaya Portable Music Stand
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Amazing complete kit
- Has everything you need
- Strong, yet transportable
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Stand lights clip onto your music stand to ensure you can read your sheet music. They are particularly handy for performances in churches, where the lighting may be ineffective at night. I recommend buying the Royal Super Bright 29 LED Music Stand Light. Whilst this is more expensive than other brands, it is far more reliable both in terms of lighting and the strength of its clamp.
Royal Super Bright
Stand Light
29 LEDs
-
Brightness: 3 Brightness Levels
-
Great feature: Battery Indicator Lights
- 14 warm LED+ 15 white LED create the best Lighting atmosphere.
- The memory fuction will be automatically activated the brightnesss/ color temperature after 30s turning on.
The TedScore™: 9/10
The professional musician who wrote this article combine many things, from the product build,
manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
- Stylish design
- Strong and sturdy
- Slightly heavier than some other brands (1.1kg weight)
17 must-have accessories for string players
Summary
So there you have it!
Those are the pieces of equipment which you’ll need to play your string instrument. Some are more essential than others, but all will make your life in the music world easier and your musical life more enjoyable!
I didn’t even know you needed this, is there anything not on the list?
Well you don’t ‘need’ everything on this list, but they are very useful things.