How to Hold a Violin Bow
Hey guys,
this is Joel Kennedy bringing you another video!
Today, I'm showing you how I've taught a lot of students how to hold a violin bow. While attending school in NY and after moving back to the Pacific Northwest, I taught violin and viola for many years. I've instructed students from beginners to advanced players; some of which were accepted into some of the most prestigious schools in the US. Because of this, I'm sure that I can be of great use to you in your quest to quickly and easily master a proper bold hold.
First of all remember, there are 3 easy steps.
- Place the tip of your (bent) thumb in between the leather grip and frog of your bow.
- Place your bow on the first crease of your first knuckle for fingers 1, 2 and 3. Let the fingers relax and hang over the bow.
- Place your (bent) pinky on top of the violin and leave some gap between it and your ring finger.
Helpful tips:
- ALWAYS, bent thumb and pinky. Being bent will allow them to flex and move while you play.
- PRACTICE, practice, practice. Rehearse holding the bow properly everyday and don't forget the 3 exercises I mention in the video.
1st exercise: Practice forming the perfect bow hold
2nd exercise: Practice "windshield wipers"
3rd exercise: Practice "spider crawls" up and down the bow.