How to Use the Bow When Playing the Fiddle

Where the bow is on the strings and what section of the bow that you use affects the sound that your going to create with a fiddle. Follow these tips to using a bow when playing the fiddle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find the balance of the bow. This is the area where the bows weight is equal. The best way to find this is to try to balance the bow on one finger. When you find the bows balance, it will sit evenly on one finger.

2. Use the area where the bow is balanced for the best overall tone and volume. This allows the most control and gives the most resonant sound. This doesn't mean that you should only play on this section of the bow, each area gives you a different sound that creates contrast and interest.

3. Play with the tip of the bow, which is typically used for a richer tone. This area of the bow will create a delicate, prettier tone and will not be as loud and harsh as areas of the bow toward the frog.

4. Use the area of the bow near the frog for more volume. This is the area where you can exert the most pressure and get the loudest sound. Be careful because pressing too hard can make a harsh, scratchy sound.

5. Make sure that the hair of the bow is as perpendicular to the strings as possible for the best sound overall. Playing on the edge of the hair of the bow will create a soft sound that is often scratchy.

6. Pay attention to where you are playing on the strings with the bow. This will also affect the overall sound and tone. If you play very close to the fingerboard, it will sound softer and more crunchy. If you play close to the bridge the sound will be louder but it will also be a very harsh sound.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you are holding the bow properly. The thumb should be in the finger groove, slightly bent with the index, middle, and ring finger laying over the back of the bow. The top of pinkie should be placed on top of the bow.