Cello Bow Trajectory

When we think about “bow trajectory”, we almost invariably think only about what the bow (and right arm) does while in contact with the strings. The bow does however also spend a lot of time in the air and, because this aerial choreography is inaudible, it can be easily overlooked, ignored, neglected and forgotten. This is unfortunate because the bow’s trajectory in the air is as fundamental to bowing technique as silence is to music.

Our discussion of Bow Trajectory is therefore divided into two sections:

  1.  Bow Trajectory On The String
  2.         Bow Trajectory In The Air

Included in the “aerial choreography” (Trajectory in the Air) article is a discussion about the bow’s takeoffs and landings (its placement onto and removal from the strings).