When first learning to play the violin or any other bowed stringed instrument, one of the most important skills to focus on and perfect, even before picking up the instrument itself, is a proper bow hold and grip. The effectiveness of your bowing technique and the quality of tone produced on your instrument are influenced enormously by the manner in which you grip the bow. Therefore, it’s critical to focus on developing good habits and proper bow-related techniques early on in your learning journey.

In this online classical violin lesson, Philadelphia Orchestra first section violinist and ArtistWorks instructor, Richard Amoroso, teaches his approach to gripping the bow and walks through some best practices to help you develop a bow hold that is comfortable and effective. He also outlines a few of the common mistakes that students make when first learning to hold the bow, and how to avoid these bad habits.

LEARN MORE: Want to learn how to play the classical violin from a master musician like Richard Amoroso? Try some free online violin lessons now!

“The bow grip should always be something of pure ease,” Richard explains. “It should never feel forced. The bow should never feel like something that you’re really squeezing or holding onto for dear life.”

One clear indicator that you may be holding your bow incorrectly is any sort of feeling of discomfort in your bowing hand. Oftentimes, students who are in the early stages of learning will hold the bow in such a way that some of their fingers are either hyper-extended—this is often the pinky—or crumpled in an awkward way. If you notice that you’re experiencing similar issues when holding your bow, this lesson will likely provide the guidance you need to develop a more comfortable grip.

“The key to a proper bow hold comes down to balance,” explains Richard. “The bow should be able to balance comfortably in your hand and require a minimal amount of energy to grip.”

To learn more about properly gripping the bow and how to develop a comfortable and correct bowing technique, dive into this online violin lesson from Richard Amoroso:

How to Grip the Bow with Richard Amoroso:

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Have you always wanted to learn how to play the classical violin? Through our comprehensive violin lessons online and Video Exchange Learning platform here at ArtistWorks, you can learn from internationally renowned players, like Richard Amoroso, and get personalized feedback on your playing.

Richard’s course starts with the basics and teaches everything from beginner violin to advanced performance techniques, iconic classical compositions, music theory, and more. So, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player, all levels are welcome and all students will grow and improve their skills as violinists and musicians!

Sample some free music lessons here and see what makes ArtistWorks courses some of the best online music lessons around!

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