Violin Techniques

Bowing Methods, or Techniques, for Violin

The sound of a violin is generated by the act of drawing the bow across the strings. There are several techniques for bowing the violin that produce different sounds and effects. These techniques are known as detache, legato, sautille, col legno, and chopping. Detache is a term that refers to notes that are disjointed, while legato is a style of playing where each successive note connects seamlessly with the next note. Sautille is a technique that is difficult to recognize. In this technique, the bow stroke is very rapid. with one stroke per not and the bow bouncing slightly off the string for each note played. Col legno is an interesting technique in which the strings are struck by the back of the bow. This creates a percussive sound that can be very dramatic when performed by the entire orchestral violin section.

In order to produce enough volume for a desired effect, it is often necessary to enlist all of the violin members in an orchestra. Chopping is another technique that has a percussive effect. This technique involves striking the strings with the hair near the bottom of the bow, and is most commonly employed by jazz musicians.

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