Not Just a Bow
When you think of the sound of a violin, you probably think of the sound of the instrument itself. But without a bow, there can be no music.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
Beyond the Violin
Violins can be stunning works of art. But people often forget that violin music cannot resonate without the bow. The bow has nearly as much influence on the sound of a violin as the instrument itself.
The Violin Player (1626) by Honthorst, Gerrit vanMauritshuis
The History of the Bow
The violin bow, as we know it today, has a long history. Centuries ago, bows were simple, straight sticks without much refinement. Over time, they became increasingly sophisticated. An interesting aspect of the development of bows is the transition from convex to concave shape.
Early bows were often convex: they had a slight outward curve. This shape was common until the 18th century and produced a specific sound and playing technique suited to the music of that time.
Violin bow by AnonymousMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
With the innovations of famous bow makers such as François Tourte in the 18th century, the transition to concave bows began, featuring an inward curve.
This shape improved balance and control for the player, making it possible to achieve a broader range of dynamics and articulations. Modern bows are almost always concave because this shape facilitates sound projection.
The making of a violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
The Art of Bow Making
Making a violin bow is a craft in itself. It requires years of training and a keen eye for detail. Every bow maker, or archetier, uses specific techniques passed down from master to apprentice.
The making process begins with the selection of the wood. It is essential for the wood to be flexible and strong. Many modern bow makers choose pernambuco wood. For historical bows, makers use woods such as snakewood, applewood, or sometimes even ash.
The wood is carefully shaped, planed and bent to create a well-balanced bow.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
The Materials of a Bow
In addition to wood, other materials are needed to make a violin bow. The frog – the block where you hold the bow – is often made from a harder wood such as ebony, often ornamented with mother-of-pearl or bone. The screw mechanisms is usually made of silver or nickel.
The most intriguing component of the bow is the horsehair. The hair used on a bow is cut from the tail of a horse.
Not just any horsehair is suitable; the hair from horses in cold climates such as Mongolia or Siberia is more suitable, because it is thicker and stronger.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
Today, many bows are strung with white horsehair, but bass bows and bows modeled after historical designs often use black hair, which is rougher and grips the string better, making it easier to produce sound.
The making of a violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
Tightening and Loosening the Bow
An important aspect of using a bow is tightening and loosening the hair. When a musician finishes playing, the tension on the hair must be reduced to prevent it from stretching or breaking.
When the humidity rises, your violin bow needs a little extra care. The hair expands, becoming longer and needing tighter tension to maintain the optimal sound.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
Rosin: The Secret Ingredient
Rosin is essential when playing a bow. It is derived from the resin of pine trees and is used to make the horsehair sticky. This increases friction between the bow and the strings, producing a fuller sound.
Without rosin, the hair would simply glide over the strings without prod.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
New Acquisitions at Museum Vleeshuis
In 2024 Museum Vleeshuis acquired two remarkable violin bows, both built after historical models by Belgian archetier Jérôme Gastaldo.
These bows are completely handcrafted and are based on models from two different periods in the history of the bow.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
Inspired by the 17th Century
The first bow is an example of a model from the mid-17th century. This stick has 16 chamfers or edges and is made from ironwood. This wood is known for its exceptional hardness and durability, providing a stable and powerful playing experience.
The frog of the bow is made from amourette, or letterwood, a wood that is both beautiful and functional. The button is made from deer antler ("bois de cervidé").
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
Inspired by the 18th Century
The second bow is based on a model from the early 18th century. This bow is octagonal and made entirely from amourette, both the stick and the frog.
Amourette was chosen for its combination of strength and beauty, making this bow both functional and aesthetically appealing.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
The Bows in Action
The bows have already been captured in action, played by violinist Judith Noordzij. The photos show that these bows are not merely museum pieces to look at. They are part of our collection of playable museum objects.
Violin bowMuseum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City
A Bow's Journey: From Stick to Sound
In short, the bow is much more than a simple tool to make a violin sound; it is a piece of craftsmanship that deserves as much attention as the instrument itself.
With its rich history, intricate craftsmanship, and the use of unique materials, the bow plays an indispensable role. The next time you enjoy a beautiful violin solo, think of the bow that makes the incredible sound possible!
Museum Vleeshuis would like to thank Jérôme Gastaldo and Rebekka De Backer.
