The Music Studio of Lisa C. Brunner
  • Home
  • Lessons
  • Blog
  • About

Carbon Fiber Bows: Yes or No?

2/28/2019

1 Comment

 
I was recently asked to weigh on a debate that has been ongoing in the strings world: do I prefer a wood bow or a carbon fiber bow?

The answer is more than a simple yes or no. Each has a purpose, so I do have and use both.


When I was a young violin student, carbon fiber bows were not the bow of choice. For anyone. They were poor quality. But they have come a long way in 20 years. High quality carbon fiber bows on the market now have the same weight, bounce, and flexibility as a traditional wood bow.

As I discussed in an earlier post, bow selection is and should be tailored to your instrument. So it follows that some instruments may prefer a carbon fiber bow over a wood bow.

I have a Coda Bow Diamond GX carbon fiber violin bow, and a Fiddler Man carbon fiber violin bow. I use the Fiddler Man carbon fiber bow as a teaching tool, particularly for young violinists. I can show them proper bow technique, demonstrate what not to do, and allow them to work with the bow without fear of damage. I use the Coda Bow for playing outdoors or less-than-ideal temperature conditions where my wood bow will have a poor response. The Coda Bow gives me a similar expressive response as my wood bow. I also like to play “rougher” pieces (more contemporary, double-stop filled) where I would otherwise worry about damaging my wood bow. The Coda Bow also handles particularly well on my electric instruments.

For more classical playing, I prefer my pernambuco bow. I prefer the balance, weight, and the feel in my hand. With the pernambuco bow, I feel that I have more of an expressive range. The bow truly feels like an extension of my hand. But it can be a bit temperamental.


If you’re searching for a bow, try and selection of both pernambuco and carbon fiber. See how your instrument responds and what feels best for you.
1 Comment
Wales Men for Men link
11/17/2022 01:09:50 pm

Thhanks for sharing this

Reply



Leave a Reply.

    Lisa C. Brunner

    Violinist, strings teacher, and product-junkie! This is the place for Lisa's thoughts about music, performance, teaching, helpful study tips, and favorite accessories!

    Archives

    February 2021
    November 2020
    October 2020
    March 2020
    February 2019
    January 2019
    November 2018
    September 2018

    Categories

    All

    RSS Feed

​The Music Studio of Lisa C. Brunner


Hours

Lessons and Performances by Appointment

Telephone

412-759-8210

Email

lisamusicstudio@gmail.com
  • Home
  • Lessons
  • Blog
  • About