One of the most important foundations of cello playing is learning how to keep the bow at the correct angle for each string. This ensures a clear, resonant sound and prevents accidentally hitting two strings at once.
Why the Bridge is Curved
The cello bridge is arched, much like a little hill. This curved shape is essential, it allows us to play each string individually. If the bridge were flat, the strings would all lie at the same level, and it would be impossible to isolate one string at a time.
Staying Parallel to the Bridge
The golden rule of bowing is: the bow must always stay parallel to the bridge. This can be tricky because when you look down from your playing position, the bow’s path is not always obvious, especially on the A and C strings.
A helpful trick:
This method works for every string.
The Four Bow Angles
Think of your bow arm as moving in a gentle arc, like rowing a boat, each string has its own path.
Why the Bridge is Curved
The cello bridge is arched, much like a little hill. This curved shape is essential, it allows us to play each string individually. If the bridge were flat, the strings would all lie at the same level, and it would be impossible to isolate one string at a time.
Staying Parallel to the Bridge
The golden rule of bowing is: the bow must always stay parallel to the bridge. This can be tricky because when you look down from your playing position, the bow’s path is not always obvious, especially on the A and C strings.
A helpful trick:
- Place your bow on the bridge itself, exactly between the two strings you want to avoid.
- Find the angle that touches only the desired string.
- Then move the bow back to its normal playing position, maintaining that same angle.
This method works for every string.
The Four Bow Angles
- C string: the bow feels close to your body and lower than the others.
- G and D strings: feel natural and centred, these are the easiest to control.
- A string: the bow feels like it’s reaching far away from your body. This angle takes the most practice and often requires extra attention in front of a mirror.
Think of your bow arm as moving in a gentle arc, like rowing a boat, each string has its own path.
Using a Mirror
Practising in front of a mirror is one of the best ways to check whether your bow is really parallel to the bridge. What feels straight when you’re playing often isn’t! The mirror provides instant feedback.
Adjusting to Each String’s Weight
Each string responds differently:
Think of it as giving each string what it needs: the higher strings want delicacy, while the lower ones want weight and depth.
Practising in front of a mirror is one of the best ways to check whether your bow is really parallel to the bridge. What feels straight when you’re playing often isn’t! The mirror provides instant feedback.
Adjusting to Each String’s Weight
Each string responds differently:
- A string – light and easy to start vibrating.
- D string – similar to the A, but slightly fuller.
- G string – needs more weight to avoid a muddy sound.
- C string – thickest string, requires a heavier, slower stroke to bring out its resonance.
Think of it as giving each string what it needs: the higher strings want delicacy, while the lower ones want weight and depth.