Produced and moderated by the Suzuki Music Academy, the Suzuki Violin Teachers Forum is the first international online forum designed especially for the Suzuki Violin teaching professional. Essential aspects of the specialized field of Suzuki violin method teaching are the subjects for the Forum.

"SUZUKI VIOLIN TEACHERS FORUM" - No. 3 "Wood Bow Vs. Fiberglass Bow" QUESTION: I have been a Suzuki Violin teacher for over five years. I have always recommended that very young students use the fiberglass bows that are available. The parents of one of my younger students purchased a violin kit with a wood bow. Does it make any difference whether a wood bow or fiberglass bow is used? ANSWER: It does make a difference. The popularity of fiberglass bows arises from the fact that fiberglass is more sturdy than bows made of wood. Wooden bows are more vulnerable to damage from mistreatment. This becomes an more important factor when students are not properly trained to handle and care for the bow. Even the youngest students can, and should, get proper training so that they can use wood bows. Fiberglass bows may be robust and otherwise adequate for beginning students, but the lighter weight and thinner shaft of the wood bow is superior for study. Parents should only purchase or rent bows, and violins for that matter, that are returnable, subject to the teacher's approval. You should make certain that the bow is straight and not warped. Of course, showing the parent how to loosen the tension on the bow hair, for when the bow is not being used, will help to keep a straight wooden bow from warping .   There is also the consideration of real hair vs. synthetic hair. Synthetic hair is more durable, but real hair has a clear advantage by functioning better and is preferable. Note: While the wooden bow may be preferable, a fiberglass bow can be a very adequate substitute in situations where children are getting less than the best training in handling and caring for the bow.

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