There are plenty of information on the internet on how to find the right brand when buying a beginner cello, but it’s also important to understand the best ways to choose a bow that matches your cello strings. You need to consider the proper size, comfort, and quality before buying a cello bow.
Tips for Beginners
For beginning cellists, it’s not advisable to invest in highest quality bows with expensive price tags. This is particularly not a good option if you don’t have plans to play cello in the long run. So while you’re still a beginner, there’s a chance that you will move to another instrument that suits your musical skills.
You can choose the bow that offers the right design and price for beginners. It should be appropriate to your size and your cello. In addition, the bow must provide durable stick with a decent curve called camber. You can ask for expert advice if you’re not sure about the cello bow you’re going to use.
Choosing the Material
Bow sticks are usually made from Pernambuco, carbon fiber, and other types of Brazilian hardwood. If you want, you can also opt for more affordable bow like the fiberglass type. Fiberglass bows provide more strength but less the price so it’s really good for beginners.
You also have the option to go for natural or synthetic bow hair, depending on your budget, playing preference, and experience. Natural bow hair is the traditional choice, but more musicians choose synthetic options because they provide better durability, sound quality, and longevity.
Factors to Consider in Choosing Cello Bows
- Weight. Most cello bows weigh 2.3 ounces to 2.82 ounces. It may seem light for non-string musicians; but if you’re untrained to handle such weight while holding your bow in the right manner for several minutes, it would be a challenge.
- Balance. A bow’s center point of balance is from the tip-end of the stick to the front-end. The tip-end may need more control while giving you some heaviness. The front-end may have lack of control and give you excess bounce.
- Strength and Flexibility. A stiffer bow may be easier and stronger to manage. However, it may produce thinner or weaker sound. A more flexible bow, on the other hand, needs more finesses and expertise. But the quality of sound may be more responsive and richer.
Always test the bow with your cello to know if it’s exactly what you’re looking for.