To understand the functioning of the bow, one has to realize from the very onset that the whole right arm technique is based on a system of springs.
- Ivan Galamian (1903-1981)
Right-hand techniques encompass all the techniques taught to students once a proper bow hold is established. In Western Europe, the United States, and Canada, a proper bow hold is rooted in the principles of the Franco-Belgian violin school. It involves holding the bow between the bent thumb and middle finger, with the ring finger supporting the hold and aiding bow movement between the bridge and fingerboard—often referred to as the "spiritual guide." The index finger
controls bow pressure and counterbalances the pinkie, which in turn counterbalances the index finger's pressure. This dynamic interaction is sometimes described as "pull on a downbow & push on the upbow" (tirez & poussez in French), where the index finger pulls the bow and the pinkie pushes it.
Developing a wide range of right-hand techniques for artistic playing takes years to fully mature. Therefore, it is crucial to introduce the foundational elements of these techniques— including advanced bow strokes and principles of tone production—from the very beginning of instruction. To succeed in this complex and long-term endeavor, continuous refinement of "healthy foundations" is essential, while teaching right-hand techniques using a "spiral curriculum" approach. In this approach, techniques are introduced in simplified forms initially and revisited multiple times over months and years, gradually increasing in complexity and sophistication.
These instructional videos include explanations and exercises intended to teach a variety of right-hand techniques, drawing from a wide range of historical and modern teaching methods. These exercises are suitable for both individual lessons and group class settings.
Captions for all videos are available in the YouTube links provided next to each video.