Learn Violin Online with Online Violin Teacher Meghan Faw Lesson 4/15: How to bow straight

Straight bowing (ie keeping the bow parallel to the bridge) is extremely important for maintaining a full, even sound. Each contact point on the violin sounds slightly different, so when the bow is not straight, the sound is not even.

To move the bow straight, the hand is not going to move in a straight line. I like to think of the motion as a crescent moon or half-circle shape. When performing a downbow, the hand moves outward or away from you as you approach the tip.

When performing an up bow, the hand moves inward or towards you. The wrist should also come up when approaching the frog.

Now that you know how to tune and hold your instrument and bow, the next step is to practice straight bowing on open strings. I suggest either practicing in front of a mirror or recording yourself to be sure your bow is staying straight. Additionally, be mindful of your elbow and shoulder when moving down to the lower strings. They should not raise more than absolutely necessary.