The Nature of Bows

   Bows can be explained from many points of view. The simplest description is that a bow is an energy transmitter. When you tighten a bow, the reverse curve of the stick (the camber) opposes the tension of the hair, creating in essence a coiled spring waiting to work. The added energy from your arm, and the energy from the friction of the bow's hair against the strings, are transmitted through the bow to the instrument, producing sound.

The nature of the bow, which is defined mainly by the quality of the wood its made of (usually pernambuco) and the care with which the bow has been made, will determine how successfully it will transmit sound.

The energy (sound) transmitted by the bow moves in a continuous loop, recycling back through itself within the bow. The instrument by itself is also a complete energy source. The combination of the bow's coiled tension and the instrument's potential power creates the ultimate energy loop, the two working together to transform a good instrument into a truly brilliant one.

There is also a resonance factor in the equation-- the resonant frequencies of bow and instrument either engage each other or do not. They may produce a richness of sound, or they can actually dampen each other. Out of 20 great Peccattes, for example, probably only one will work with your particular instrument. It doesn't mean the other 19 are poor bows, just that they do not successfully engage your instrument. The search for that great modern or antique bow to match your instrument can be long, but ultimately highly rewarding.