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Orchestral String Instrument Bows

Shop Orchestral String Instrument Bows at West Music

West Music has amassed a selection of the best violin and cello bows from respected names like Eastman and Glaser. Whether you are a beginner, advancing player or educator shopping for your students, our online assortment will fulfill your specific needs and preferences. Explore our finely hand-crafted Pernambuco violin bows or light and sturdy carbon fiber cello bows, each bringing thoughtful construction and professional appearances. For those who want to add a touch of personality, we also offer bow accessories, like colorful elephant designs (Cellphant), and playful â€œBow Holder Buddiesâ€ by Things4; these additions to your violin or cello bow will naturally reinforce good habits like correct posture and hand positioning. Complete your orchestral instrument today by purchasing the necessary bow online from West Music.

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If you cannot view the products in this category, PLEASE CLICK HERE

Your network or browser security settings may be blocking the products from loading (to confirm, try opening this page on your phone's cellular network).

Please try the following options to proceed with your order:

1. To place your order over the phone, call us Monday-Friday, 9am - 5pm CST at 1-800-397-9378.

2. Shop via a different browser or network connection (i.e. on your phone or with a different Wi-Fi network).

3. Contact your IT team to ask them to whitelist js.klevu.com.

4. You can also click here to access our digital catalog. Use the search at the top of the Catalog screen to find a product, click a link to navigate the product detail page (product pages will load normally), and add it to your cart. You can also navigate directly to product pages by adding a 6-digit item number (i.e. "400278") to the end of our URL (i.e. Westmusic.com/400278).

String Instrument Bows

The bow plays a pivotal role in the life of every string musician, acting as an extension of the player's arm and a translator of their artistic intent. From the supple strokes of a violin bow to the powerful pull of a French bass bow, the choice of bow significantly influences the instrument's sound, dynamics, and overall expressiveness. Today's musicians have a wide range of materials and styles, including innovative fiberglass bows, traditional wooden bows, and the esteemed performance of a CodaBow. Let's explore the characteristics and benefits of various bows for the violin, viola, cello, and double bass.

French Bass Bow

The French bass bow, characterized by its lighter weight and narrower frog, allows for intricate control and agility, making it a preferred choice for many double bass players. Its design facilitates a wide range of bowing techniques, from legato strokes to staccato articulations, providing bassists with the tools needed for expressive performance across genres.

Cello Bow

A quality cello bow can unlock the full sonic potential of the cello, producing its characteristic warm and deep tones. The bow's balance, weight, and flexibility are critical factors that affect the bow's response and the ease with which a cellist can draw sound from the instrument. Whether executing delicate passages or powerful forte sections, the right cello bow becomes an invaluable partner in musical expression.

Violin Bow

The violin bow is central to the violinist's ability to shape melody and harmony. The choice of a bow affects everything from the clarity of notes to the richness of the sound. A well-crafted violin bow allows for a wide dynamic range and expressive articulation, enabling violinists to convey the subtle nuances of their musical vision.

Viola Bow

The viola bow, similar in appearance to the violin bow but slightly heavier and longer, is designed to complement the larger size and lower pitch of the viola. This subtle difference in weight and balance helps violists produce the instrument's rich, resonant tones, balancing power, and finesse to navigate the viola's unique repertoire.

Fiberglass Bows

Fiberglass bows have gained popularity recently for their durability, resistance to warping, and affordability. These bows are excellent for students and educators, offering consistent performance in various environmental conditions. Despite their strength, fiberglass bows are designed to provide balance and flexibility, ensuring a smooth playing experience for musicians at all levels. One well-known brand of fiberglass bows is CodaBow.

CodaBow

CodaBow has emerged as a leader in modern bow-making, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative materials like carbon fiber. Known for their durability, consistency, and superior performance, CodaBows offers musicians a responsive and powerful tool. The brand provides specialized models for violin, viola, cello, and bass, each engineered to enhance the playing experience and sound of the respective instrument.

Importance of Choosing the Right Bow

Choosing the right bow is as crucial as selecting the instrument, with each bow type bringing out different qualities in the musician's performance. From the resilience of fiberglass bows to the nuanced control offered by French bass bows and the advanced technology of CodaBow, musicians have a wealth of options to find their perfect match. Whether you're a budding student or a seasoned professional, the right bow will elevate your music, offering a gateway to more profound expression and connection with your instrument.