How to hold the violin

Violin Placement

The viola is held horizontally (parallel with the floor) and is angled to the left of a straight forward position.
Place the viola on your left collar bone (some violists prefer the soft spot just behind the collar bone), and rest the left side of your jaw on the chin rest.
Many violists find shoulder rests helpful to hold up the viola, and there are a variety of shoulder rests available. Some violists use round make-up sponges (attached with rubber bands), and others use shoulder rests that feel most comfortable to them.

The elbow should be under the center of the viola.
Keep the wrist gently rounded.
Avoid resting the wrist against the viola neck.
The thumb should be opposite the first or second finger.
Maintain a curved, open space between the thumb and index finger (a backwards "C").

When standing, stand straight with feet shoulder width apart, and with relaxed knees. Some violists recommend sliding the left foot slightly forward.
When seated, use a chair with a firm base, and sit up straight (soft sofas aren't recommended). Some violists sit towards the front of the chair, and prefer placing the left foot slightly forward.