Frequently Asked Questions About Violin & Fiddle Bows

Date: Tue, 13 Aug 2002 12:50:11 -0500

Mickey,

I recently bought my daughter a new violin as she is getting ready
to start playing again after setting out for a year. With the help
of your website and a couple of others we got it set up, but when
she drags the bow across the strings it makes a scratchy sound.
From your frequently asked questions sections I think there may be
too much rosin on the bow. How do we remove it? If this does not
solve the problem, do you have any other suggestions?

Thanks,
Lisa Quirke
Salina, KS

Greetings Lisa,

You're right in estimating that there may be too much rosin on the
bow. To remove rosin from your bow, you'll want to be extra
careful...do not apply any type of chemicals; otherwise, your bow may
be rendered out of commission due to oils...this is manifested by the
bow slipping and sliding. Use a damp cloth...Additionally, be sure to
wipe down the strings, which can also accumulate rosin, with the same
damp cloth.

Another possibility for the scratching sound would be too much added
pressure...be careful to let the bow do most of the work when
starting out. It's easy, when just starting out, to add too much
pressure by forcing the bow down on the strings, which will most
definitely cause the same discordant scratching sound.

Hope this helps out somehow...Mickey

Subject: Violin Purchase
Date: Fri, 24 May 2002 03:30:38 -0700

Greetings Richard,
Glad to assist if I can:

Hello,
I am interested in playing the violin and just found your website through internet search engines. I like the features and price of the Cremona violins but was wondering if there is a difference in playability, sound, or feel when using a fiberglass bow vs a wooden bow?

Most definitely...a fiberglass bow is usually less giving...they seem rigid. They are usually constructed with less high-end detail since they're also cheaper in price. I highly recommend a wood bow. A bow is as important as the violin itself so, if you can afford it, try not to compromise on the quality of the bow...if you're just starting out, a fiberglass bow is fine and certainly serves well to learn with...you'll outgrow one with a year or so of practice.

Mickey

Regards,
Richard