Bow Buying Guide: Things to Consider When Choosing

When it comes to string instruments like the violin, viola, cello, or bass, choosing the right bow is just as important as selecting the instrument itself. The right bow can enhance your playing experience, improve sound quality, and make your instrument easier to play. In this guide, we'll cover key factors to consider when buying a bow to ensure you make an informed choice.

Materials

The material of a bow significantly affects its durability, weight, flexibility, and overall sound quality. Here are the most common materials:

• Fiberglass: Lightweight, affordable, and highly durable, fiberglass bows are an excellent choice for beginners. However, they lack the resonant sound quality of more advanced materials.
• Brazilwood: Often considered a step up from fiberglass, Brazilwood bows have a warmer sound and are a great choice for intermediate players.
• Pernambuco: Known as the gold standard for wooden bows, Pernambuco offers exceptional sound quality and flexibility. These bows are handmade and are commonly used by professional musicians.
• Carbon Fiber: Durable, lightweight, and highly resonant, carbon fiber bows have become increasingly popular. At a similar price point, they often outperform Pernambuco bows in terms of consistency and performance.

Flexibility

A bow's flexibility determines how it responds to pressure and movement across the strings. A bow that is too stiff or too soft may hinder your ability to control dynamics and articulation. Testing flexibility firsthand is crucial to finding the right balance for your playing style.

Weight

The weight of a bow can greatly impact playability. A bow that is too heavy can feel cumbersome, while one that is too light may lack stability. Most bows fall between 58-63 grams for violins, but slight differences can affect your comfort and control.

Round or Octagonal Shape

Most bow sticks come in one of two shapes:

• Round Bows: Known for their smooth, balanced feel, round bows are often preferred for their versatility and even response.
• Octagonal Bows: These bows are stiffer and offer more control and precision, making them popular among advanced players.

The choice between round and octagonal bows ultimately depends on personal preference.

Sound Quality

Every bow interacts differently with each instrument. The bow's material, weight, and flexibility all contribute to the sound it produces. When trying out bows, it's essential to bring your own instrument to ensure the bow complements its unique tonal qualities.

Tips for Trying Out Bows

Selecting the right bow can be challenging, but these tips can help:

1. Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend before trying bows. This helps narrow your options and prevents overspending.
2. Playtest In Person: If possible, try bows in person to experience their weight, balance, and sound firsthand.
3. Try Only 2-3 Bows at a Time: Limiting your choices prevents confusion and helps you make clear comparisons.
4. Play Music from Memory: Focus on tone and responsiveness by playing pieces you know well.
5. Play Shorter Excerpts: Switch quickly between bows while playing short musical passages to better compare their sound and feel.

Shop Bows at Summerhays

Summerhays Music carries an extensive range of bows in almost any price range. Whether you're looking to upgrade your own bow, or you're shopping for a loved one, we can help. Visit us today or give us a call at (801) 268-4446 to find your dream instrument.