Today I’m going to be talking about the different kinds of violin bows and what you may decide is best for you.

The purpose of this video is NOT to offer an exhaustive list of all the different types of bows of woods in regards to genus, species, regions etc. I am intentionally keeping this video simple and very generalized.

When deciding on the kind of bow you should buy, you should consider:

1. Bounce characteristics
2. Sound production
3. Durability
4. Price

Generally speaking the primary question you are asking yourself is, how much compromise are you willing to make for a lower price point?

There are 4 different kinds of bows:

1. Fiberglass
2. Carbon fiber
3. High-quality wood (often referred to as Brazilwood)
4. Pernambuco wood.

1. Fiberglass bows are very good as rental bows or bows for school districts. They are very strong and inexpensive. The downside is that they sound, look and feel terrible. They also will often have fake horse hair, which is awful in just about every way.

2. Carbon fiber bows often offer the least amount of compromise when it comes to features VS price and have come a long way in the last 20 years or so. They used to be a slightly better option than fiberglass because they had a much better feel, and playability but the sound always suffered quite a bit. However, the modern carbon fiber bow has improved its sound quality by leaps and bounds. The most commonly known and probably the most popular brands of Carbon Fiber bows are made by the CODA company in the USA. The sound is very good on some of their models and the bounce characteristics are supremely hard to beat. I recommended these bows to my advanced students who could not afford a $3,000 pernambuco bow but wanted a bot that was 90% as good. A lot of professionals will use these bows as well as their back up bow or outdoor bow. The benefits to these bows are that they are durable, strong, bounce very well and are relatively inexpensive. However, I have never played on a Carbon Fiber bow that could offer the warmth of sound that a high-quality Pernambuco bow.

3. High-quality wood bows are generally referred to a “Brazilwood” bows. Many people think that these bows have wood that comes out of Brazil but is not as high quality as Pernambuco wood that also comes out of Brazil but the truth is most of these bows are made from a wood commonly referred to as “bullet wood.” It is a wood that is very high density and very stable. It is very similar to Pernambuco wood but is not as good. Most of it comes out of China. There are some inferior woods used as well on the cheapest wood bows and the wood is usually pretty bad. These bows “can” offer good bounce characteristics and can offer good sound. The best point of these bows is that they are generally less than $500 and if made properly, can offer decent bounce and sound. However, there is a lot of variability in these bows, so an expert should play test them to find the best bow. Often times, the price point does not mean anything, so you really have to test them out.

4. Pernambuco bows can offer the best bounce and probably will offer the best sound. Bounce characteristic is something that is somewhat subjective to the player but a pernambuco bow will almost always have a better sound than a synthetic bow. It is illegal to buy Pernambuco wood from Brazil, so the only way you’re going to get a true Pernambuco bow is if you buy a bow that was made in Brazil, you buy an older bow or you buy a new bow from someone who has a large stock of Pernambuco wood that they purchased years ago before it was illegal.

The post What Bow Should I Buy? appeared first on Education Center.

A. You will have a significantly more focused and productive practice session. You want to warm up your body and mind.

There are 4 main points about the value of being warmed up.

— Because joints are stiff when not warmed up. When they are stiff, they move and feel different.

1. It’s important not to begin your practice sessions with something that is technically challenging because you will be “cold” and less capable of success and this will increase the likelihood of failed attempts. Your failed attempts at playing certain things will not only reinforce poor performance but it will lengthen the time it takes to consistently play something correct and will make your practice session much less efficient.

2. Your body will partially remember the additional effort it takes to complete many physical motions. For example shifting, vibrato, string crossings, achieving certain dynamics, finger placement etc. If you body is taught an abnormal amount of effort, it’ll make teaching your body the correct amount, even harder because once you are warmed up, you’ll have to re-teach your body how to feel. Therefore, teach your body music while you are in what would be considered a “normal” state. If you are practicing at least an hour, you will spend a lot more time playing warmed up then cold.

3. Avoid injury. If you practice quick and difficult passages without being warmed up, you risk injuring yourself. The most elastic and pliable your joints are, the less likely they are to rip and tear.

4. Also, you need to engage your musical mind. You will become more alert and sharp as you warm up. Once your mind is more engaged, you will have a tendency to play more in tune more consistently.

B. Your warm-up session is a valuable time that you can SAFELY improve certain abilities on your stringed instrument. You are playing slow, and playing the least difficult music, so you have ample opportunity to play correctly AND to stretch/warm-up your body.

You can work on such things as:

—Intonation. Play scales to learn good intonation. If you are a beginner, put tape on your violin for where your fingers go. Scales are an excellent opportunity for your mind to become adjusted to listening very intently to the pitch you are creating. This also gives your fingers a chance to warm up and stretch. Make sure to use the 4th finger as much as possible. You should always use 4th finger for your scales because using this digit greatly increases the speed at which you can warm up and helps increase your reach for everything else on the violin. You can also compare the 4th finger with your open string to check your intonation.

—Improving technique: Playing exercises in thirds or octaves, bowing exercises or vibrato.

—Learn easier music: You have some fun Bach, duets or orchestra music to practice? Do that before the really hard stuff!

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Tremolo on a bowed stringed instrument just means that you are creating a “trembling effect”. You will want to repeat the same note very quickly with very short bow strokes.

The concept of tremolo is not very hard to grasp. However, being able to move the bow as quickly as you’d like and being able to maintain the tremolo for longer periods of time can be much more difficult.

So are the biggest challenges of tremolo?

1. Being able to move your bow fast enough.

2. Being able to maintain tremolo for long periods of time.

The key to overcoming the biggest challenges of tremolo is to be RELAXED. Follow these 2 rules to be relaxed.

1. Do not use your whole arm. Only use the wrist when trembling. The less large muscles and joints you activate the better. Resist the urge to tighten up your elbow or bicep. As soon as you tighten your elbow or bicep, your whole arm will tighten up.

2. Only use three fingers: Thumb, 1st and 2nd finger. Your ring finger and pinky should be completely relaxed. Your ring finger will barely lay on the bow and your pinky will not even be contacting the bow. Focus on moving just the TIPS of your fingers. This will help you focus on the right muscle groups.

How to practice?

When practicing tremolo, isolate your entire arm by resting it on your knee. This will help you only use your wrist and train your mind to incorporate the only muscles you should be using.

GIANT CHEAT!!

When playing in an orchestra, you can rest your arm on your right knee for long tremolo sections. Obviously, this only works on the upper strings and it may be seen as “bad form”, so don’t get caught. But it works….

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Ponticello is an effect that is most often used in orchestral music to show danger or mystery. It colors the sound in such a way that it conveys a sense of coldness or starkness. There are varying degrees of ponticello but all of them are played near the bridge and produce this mysterious or scary effect. The closer to the bridge you play, the more of the effect you get. It’s also used in jazzy types of music to make the sound “dirty”.

To effectively play ponticello, you have to make sure that you keep your bridge straight and play right extremely close to the bridge. Usually, ponticello is played with a “tremolo” bow technique, which involves repeating very short bow strokes very quickly at the tip of the bow. My video on tremolo can be found here:

In an orchestra, you will usually see “Sul Ponticello” on a certain passage to indicate the use of ponticello and usually a marking that says “normal” or something like that to indicate that the ponticello effect has ended.

Do you have any more questions? Feel free to message me in some way or ask in the comment section of YouTube and I’ll get right back to you!

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Hello Everyone,

Todays video is about learning how to bounce your bow. Bouncing your bow on a stringed instrument is more commonly known as Spicatto.

There are many types of Spicatto and today we are only going to focus on the primary mechanics of a simple Spicatto bow stroke. I will cover more techniques and practice exercises in later videos.

There are 2 primary things you can do that will pretty much guarantee your success in learning how to bounce your violin bow.

Remember, success with Spicatto = CONTROL.

1. You must practice with a metronome

—Practicing with a metronome will give you consistency from day to day on the speed at which you practice.
—Practicing with a metronome will provide you with a steady beat that will engrain in you an even stroke. This will help you be consistent, relaxed, accurate and clean.

2. You must have a relaxed bow hand.

— A relaxed bow hand is pretty much mandatory to achieve spicatto at higher speeds.
— A relaxed bow is only possible with a proper bow hold: bent thumb, bent pinky.

There are a few points to remember.

1. The faster the bounce the further up the bow you will bounce.

2. The faster the bounce the less vertically the bow will bounce. The bounce will height will become smaller as speed increases.

3. Turning your bow slightly away from you, so it’s on an angle will help with achieving a less scratchy sound.

4. The faster you bounce, the more the BOW is doing the bouncing. Conversely the slower the bounce, the more YOU will be controlling the bounce.

Here is how to practice bouncing your bow.

1. Practice the motion: Find a spot near the base of the bow (about 9-10 inches from the frog) and start bouncing. You can think of the bow as if it’s an airplane. The better it lands the better then sound. The worse it lands the worse the sound. How the bow contacts the string will determine your sound quality, so you are mostly learning how to control how the bow contacts the string. Start from a raised bow position ABOVE the string and let the bow hit the string and then lift.

Remember to strike the string in between the fingerboard and the bridge.

(There are techniques where you learn to bounce the bow FROM the string but this technique is much harder to learn and the results are less consistent without expert guidance from an experienced teacher.)

2. After you have learned the basic motion. Practice the motion with a metronome. Put the metronome at 62 BPM and bound each note 4 times. Each bounce is a beat on the metronome. Use a basic Major scale for the exercise. 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0 on every string.

3. Gradually build the speed with the metronome. A good goal speed would be 192 BPM.

4. After you are successful getting to 192 BPM or even a bit before, practice bouncing the bow 2 times times per beat and then once per beat. You can then Make it much harder with more advanced exercises. For example, you can do the same exercises listed above but with a two octave scale and then a 3 octave scale.

The post How to Bounce a Bow appeared first on Education Center.

For today’s video, I will not only be showing you an easy way to change your violin string but also a couple tricks that will make your violin much easier to tune.

Usually peoples biggest fear is that the are going to break their violin. It’s not really that easy to break your violin and you don’t need to be afraid.

The 2 biggest mistakes people make when putting on a violin string is:

1. They over-tighten the string and it breaks. This is especially problematic with the E string.

2. They wind the string on the peg incorrectly and this makes tuning the violin difficult when they are done.

—To make sure that you do not over tighten your string, make sure you have something available to emit the pitch of the string, so all you have to do is match the pitch. You can use an electronic keyboard, a piano, a pitch pipe a computer or even your phone!

—To make sure that your violin is easy to tune when you are done (so your pegs do not slip), make sure you wind the strings against the sides of the scroll box.

Step 1. Remove the broken or old string from the violin. Wind the peg counterclockwise to remove all of the string from the peg and make sure you remove it from the tailpiece as well.

Step 2. Please the ball or loop end of the string in the tailpiece or fine tuner on the bottom of the violin and keep tension on the string with one hand so the string does not pop out of the tailpiece.

Step 3. Insert the other end of the string into the peg. It’s a good idea to make sure that it goes through the peg at least 1/2 inch.

Step4. Slowly start to rewind the peg clockwise on the peg. The most important part of this step is that you gently push the peg in WHILE you are turning it. You must also make sure that you are directing the string to wind against the side of the scroll box that is nearest the peg you are turning.

Step 5. When the string is about too tight to hold with your fingers, make sure that it is correctly inside the notch on the nut (near the scroll box, it’s black) and the bridge. Now tune the string to pitch and you are done!

Good luck!

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Common Misconceptions About Rosin:

1. Quality Matters: Not all rosins are created equal. The quality and composition of rosin can vary, affecting its performance and longevity. Opting for high-quality rosins ensures better sound projection, durability, and a smoother playing experience.
2. Rosin and Bow Maintenance: Regularly applying rosin to your bow hair helps maintain its condition and prolongs its lifespan. It also prevents the hair from becoming slick and losing its grip on the strings.

The Role of Rosin in Sound Production:

When you draw the bow across the strings, rosin transfers friction to the strings, causing them to vibrate. These vibrations create sound waves that resonate within the instrument, producing the desired notes. Without rosin, the bow would glide smoothly over the strings, resulting in a lack of sound production.

For information about this, please consult a video we created to answer a lot of common questions:  HERE

The Importance of Finding Your Perfect Rosin:

1. Experimentation is Key: Each musician has unique preferences and playing styles. Trying different rosins allows you to discover the one that complements your instrument and playing technique. Some may prefer a darker sound, while others opt for a brighter tone.
2. Consider Your Genre: The musical genre you primarily perform can influence your choice of rosin. For instance, darker rosins are commonly preferred in orchestral and classical settings, while brighter rosins are favored in fiddle or jazz genres.
3. Seek Expert Advice: If you’re unsure which rosin is best for your instrument and style, consult with knowledgeable professionals. The team at Kennedy Violins is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and recommendations based on your specific needs.

Caring for Your Rosin:

1. Proper Storage: Store your rosin in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Extreme heat can cause it to melt, while excessive cold may affect its performance.
2. Cleanliness is Key: Over time, rosin residue can accumulate on your instrument’s strings and body. Regularly wipe your instrument with a soft cloth to remove any buildup and maintain its overall cleanliness.
3. Rosin and Bow Maintenance: Clean your bow hair regularly to remove excess rosin buildup. A clean bow hair ensures optimal performance and sound quality. Use a soft cloth or specialized bow hair cleaner to gently remove any residue.  Also, your bow will look a lot nicer without a bunch of nasty rosin build up on it!

Unlock the True Potential of Your Instrument with Rosin:

Rosin is an invaluable tool that contributes to the overall sound, control, and expression of your instrument. It is essential for musicians of all levels to invest in high-quality rosin and regularly maintain their bows for optimal performance.

For a wide selection of premium rosins and expert advice, visit Kennedy Violins at KennedyViolins.com. Our knowledgeable team is passionate about helping musicians find the perfect rosin to elevate their playing experience.

Remember, the right rosin can bring your instrument to life, allowing you to express your musicality with confidence and clarity. Embrace the power of rosin and unlock the true potential of your stringed instrument!

The post The Importance of Rosin for Stringed Instruments/ A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Education Center.

Understanding Violin Sizing:

Violins come in various sizes to accommodate players of different ages and physical proportions. The correct violin size allows beginners to hold and play the instrument comfortably, fostering proper posture and technique. Here are the standard violin sizes commonly available:

• 1/16 size
• 1/10 size
• 1/8 size
• 1/4 size
• 1/2 size
• 3/4 size
• 4/4 (full) size

Factors to Consider

Age and Physical Proportions:

• Very young children (4-5 years old) typically start with smaller sizes (e.g., 1/16 – 1/8) and gradually progress to larger sizes as they grow.
• Teenagers and adults generally use full-size violins (4/4), but it’s important to consider individual physical proportions as well.

Arm Length and Finger Placement:

• The player’s arm length, particularly from the neck to the middle of the palm, determines the appropriate violin size.
• Proper finger placement on the fingerboard relies on a comfortable reach, ensuring accurate intonation and technique. Pay particular attention to the 4th finger to ensure it can reach the proper place while still being at least slightly bent.

Comfort and Playability:

• Hold the violin and bow to test the overall comfort, balance, and weight distribution. A well-fitted violin should allow ease of movement and control.

Seek Expert Guidance:

• Consult a knowledgeable violin teacher, or an experienced shop representative, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs. As a general rule, a teacher or violin shop specializing in student instruments will be able to easily guide you to the proper size—either by looking at your child holding the violin or asking you some general questions about their age, experience level, and their average size for their age group.

Choosing the Right Violin Size:

Measurement Method:

• Use the neck-to-palm measurement technique: Extend the left arm fully perpendicular to the body, and measure from the base of the neck to the middle of the palm.
• Match the measurement to the corresponding violin size. Keep in mind that the students ability to maintain proper left hand technique is paramount. You can check out Kennedy Violins’ orchestral instrument sizing chart.

Playtesting:

• Visit a reputable violin shop or seek assistance from a knowledgeable violin teacher to try different violin sizes.
• Play each size to assess comfort, reach, and overall ability to reach all the notes in the left hand. Remember that stretching to a new size will be uncomfortable at first, but if they have proper form in their left hand, the 4th finger will tell you a lot. If they can reach and maintain proper technique (especially the 4th finger), the violin is probably not too big for them.

Renting vs. Buying:

• For young beginners with potential growth spurts, renting a violin is a very cost-effective option. Find out more about  Kennedy Violins’ instrument rental program.
• If the player has stopped growing or shows long-term commitment, investing in a suitable-sized violin might be a better choice. Many shops like Kennedy Violins have very good instrument trade-in programs.

Maintenance and Future Adjustments:

Remember that as a beginner, it’s important to check the violin’s size to see if it’s time for a larger size.  It may be a good idea to check every 4-6 months. 

Conclusion:

Choosing the right violin size for beginners sets the foundation for a comfortable and enjoyable musical journey. By considering factors such as age, physical proportions, comfort, and playability, you can make an informed decision that fosters proper technique and supports progress. Remember to seek guidance from experts if you have any questions!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Violin Size for Beginners appeared first on Education Center.

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An Era of Limited Options

When Kennedy Violins began its journey, the landscape of online violin stores was vastly different. There were limited options available, and many violins found online were of subpar quality and improperly set up. Aspiring musicians and seasoned players alike faced a dilemma when searching for a reputable online violin shop that could provide both convenience and quality. Kennedy Violins identified this gap in the market and set out to transform the online violin buying experience.

Setting a New Standard

Kennedy Violins emerged as a pioneer by being one of the first online violin stores to consistently provide violins that were fully set up and ready to play upon arrival. This attention to detail and commitment to quality set them apart from their competitors. Musicians no longer had to worry about spending precious time and money on getting their newly purchased violins adjusted. Kennedy Violins took care of the setup process, ensuring that each violin delivered was not only exceptional in sound but also optimized for optimal playability.

Trusted by Educators Nationwide

Word quickly spread among the music education community that Kennedy Violins offered a unique and reliable online violin buying experience. Violin teachers across the United States began recommending Kennedy Violins to their students, confident in the quality and playability of the instruments. This widespread endorsement further solidified Kennedy Violins’ reputation as a trusted source for musicians of all levels.

The Birth of Online Excellence

Kennedy Violins’ commitment to delivering top-notch instruments and outstanding customer service propelled them to the forefront of the online violin industry. Their online violin shop quickly became synonymous with excellence and reliability. Musicians seeking to buy a violin online flocked to Kennedy Violins, knowing they would receive a meticulously set up instrument that surpassed their expectations.

Conclusion

Kennedy Violins stands as a true pioneer in the online violin industry. By combining their passion for music with their dedication to providing high-quality violins, they forever transformed the way musicians can buy violins online. With their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and their role as a trusted music store, Kennedy Violins continues to empower musicians nationwide, offering an unmatched online violin shopping experience. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, Kennedy Violins invites you to embark on a musical journey with instruments that are truly worthy of your talent and aspirations.

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