Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Don't Tie Your Hands: Used Violin Bows Aren't Always Bargains
Many students consider buying used violin bows to save money, however the truth is that once you have purchased a used bow you will still need to spend a considerable amount of money to make sure it plays properly. This is especially true if the bow is very old.
In order to have a quality bow that functions as it is supposed to, the frog, screw, stick, pad and hair must be in good condition. It is better they be in excellent condition, and if the bow is taken care of it will be.
First, the frog is the part of the bow that holds the hair. When the screw in the frog is tightened, it tightens the hair and makes it taut. Having just a bit of tautness is important for the hair to play the tune correctly. Also, the frog should always be loosened after playing to ensure the hairs stay in good condition. If used bows hairs are not in good condition or have been over taut, they may need to be replaced. Always check for this when considering buying a used bow. It can cost more money than you think.
Also, when considering the purchase of used violin bows, always check to make sure the stick and pad are also in good condition. If they are not, you might consider looking for another used or new bow rather than replacing these items. Regardless, it is important to check all parts of the bow before making a decision on whether or not a used violin bow is of the quality you want.
Used violin bows may be found in the classifieds, online, at music shops and the like. Although it doesn’t happen often, you might buy a used violin bow and find it is a diamond in the rough that simply needs a little tuning.
Leah is a Mom and proud creator of www.student-violins.com, a site aimed at helping and encouraging parents of violin students.
In order to have a quality bow that functions as it is supposed to, the frog, screw, stick, pad and hair must be in good condition. It is better they be in excellent condition, and if the bow is taken care of it will be.
First, the frog is the part of the bow that holds the hair. When the screw in the frog is tightened, it tightens the hair and makes it taut. Having just a bit of tautness is important for the hair to play the tune correctly. Also, the frog should always be loosened after playing to ensure the hairs stay in good condition. If used bows hairs are not in good condition or have been over taut, they may need to be replaced. Always check for this when considering buying a used bow. It can cost more money than you think.
Also, when considering the purchase of used violin bows, always check to make sure the stick and pad are also in good condition. If they are not, you might consider looking for another used or new bow rather than replacing these items. Regardless, it is important to check all parts of the bow before making a decision on whether or not a used violin bow is of the quality you want.
Used violin bows may be found in the classifieds, online, at music shops and the like. Although it doesn’t happen often, you might buy a used violin bow and find it is a diamond in the rough that simply needs a little tuning.
Leah is a Mom and proud creator of www.student-violins.com, a site aimed at helping and encouraging parents of violin students.
