How to Use Violin Bow Levels for Rhythm

Holding and moving the bow correctly is pivotal in learning how to play the violin. The violin is an instrument that should make a fluid and relaxing sound. Stringing your bow correctly will help you achieve a good rhythm in playing the violin and reach your optimal potential.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Hold the bow in your right hand while keeping your hand relaxed. Keep your pinkie finger on top and rounded, your thumb rounded on the bottom side of the bow and your other three fingers lightly holding the bow on top.

2. Keep your forearm and wrist in a straight line. As you move the bow across a string, your entire arm should go back and forth in a straight movement. If you bend your wrist so that you're arm isn't straight, it will change the pitch of the string you're playing.

3. Move your entire arm up and down depending on the string you're playing. When playing the top string, also the G string, your arm should be at shoulder height level. The next string, D, will be played with your arm at chest level. The third string, A, will be played at abdomen level and the final string, E, will be played with your arm down close by your side.

4. Tap your foot to the rhythm of the beat which you're playing. Move the bow across the strings to the same beat of your foot. Tapping your foot along with the music will help you keep in time with the beat and give you a smooth rhythm.