thumb rests

georgia · Post by **georgia** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 12:01 pm

does anyone use one ??

What make do you use ??

Pros and Cons ??

Georgie

flutepicc06 · Post by **flutepicc06** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 1:50 pm

You mean like the Bo Pep or the Thumbport? I never have used one. They are supposed to offer a way to find the correct thumb position, but the fact that many don't fit in cases and must be removed and put back on seems to me to limit any use it would have in that realm. In my experience, they also can (but don't always) scratch the flute, and depending on the instrument, may also slide around while playing without some modifications. If you need a marker for where your thumb should go, work with your teacher to figure that out, and them apply part of a postage stamp there.

georgia · Post by **georgia** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 2:04 pm

there's a reasonably big article in the bfs magazine for september regarding 3 different makes of thumb rest, the author prefers the ton kooiman model (which doesn't "clip" onto the flute) the information is that not only does it aid correct thumb position (which i have anyway) but also destresses the area (i tend to push very hard up on this thumb) and also aides freedom of fingers on the right hand.

well anyway, i've ordered one from the internet and i'll see how i get on with it

MeLizzard · Post by **MeLizzard** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 4:49 pm

I bought a ThumbPort at convention, and haven't had much chance to really get to work with it, as I just got my flute back from an overhaul. It was only $17, so if I don't prefer it long-term, I'm not out much $$$. It's made from soft rubber, and kind of squeezes onto your flute under your right thumb. I can't imagine this thing scratching my flute. It allows your fingers to articulate from a completely different angle than if your thumb is actually on the flute's tube! I think this is a favorable change (significant enough to buy one), and I certainly wouldn't consider my regular hand position poor. It may help prevent subtle overuse injuries, and I think my hand will feel better with many hours of playing.

fluteguy18 · Post by **fluteguy18** » Fri Sep 15, 2006 9:42 pm

Yeah, I dont have any expieriance with the thumb/hand rests. When I had hand problems, I just had to relearn proper hand technique. However, right now I think I will get my springs on my new picc (got it several months ago), because the higher tension from the springs makes my left hand cramp up. I have good technique in that hand, but the tension is much higher with these springs.

georgia · Post by **georgia** » Sat Sep 16, 2006 1:09 am

do let me know how you get on melizzard as we seem to be approaching the thumb rest for the same reason (not positioning necessarily but for comfort and destressing) I got the ton kooiman from e bay (i think it was 23 dollars so not much expenditure really) but it probably won't come for a week or 10 days ........ it will be interesting though.

For anyone else who's interested there is a website for both thumb rests
www.thumbport.com
www.tonkooiman.com

the bopep thumb rest wasn't very highly rated in my magazine, as there was some movement still even with the use of the rest.

georgie