How to Hold the Violin Bow
When starting to learn the violin or viola, the hardest part for students is often learning how to hold the bow. The Franco-Belgian Hold, the hold that I teach, is one of the most common holds in contemporary learning and performance and used by great violinists such as Itzhak Perlman, Pinchas Zukerman, Isaac Stern, Joshua Bell, and Shinichi Suzuki.
Terminology
| Finger Number | Finger Name |
|---|---|
| 1st Finger | Index Finger |
| 2ndFinger | Middle Finger |
| 3rd Finger | Ring Finger |
| 4th Finger | Pinkie Finger |
Functions of the Fingers
First Finger
This finger creates the greatest connection between the arm and the bow, and can be used to add weight to the stick, equalizing tone from the frog to the tip.
Thumb and Second Finger
These fingers form the core of the bow hold. The point of contact of these digits also acts as a pivot point, or “hinge,” when you change the direction of the bow.
Third Finger
In contact with the side of the frog, the Third Finger establishes lateral control as well as reinforces the connection between the arm and the bow.
Fourth Finger
The Pinkie Finger helps support the weight of the bow to prevent excessive weight on the string.
How to Hold the Violin Bow
Additional Images
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