Going from French to German Bow

[robgrow]

Although I started out many years ago with the French bow, I have been playing a German bow quite a bit recently and really digging it. I have had a few lessons with a teacher on the basics for the German bow, but, other than that, I'm a complete beginner here. I just wondered if anyone else had picked up the German bow recently and what their experiences are.

[greitzer]

I'm in the same situation, I've been a French player and recently started trying German (on my own, not in lessons). So my German technique may be completely off. Having tried it a few times now, it does seem to provide for a stronger sound, but it seems to torque my elbow out sometimes, and bowing the E string is hard for me without either turning the bass or turning my arm. So obviously I'm not doing something right, and I likely will stick with French. Still, it's fun to try.

[Thomas Stone]

I've just joined the club too.
French player for 2+ years then tried the German grip on my french bow and enjoyed it so much I had to get a german bow to really investigate what I could do.
It's been great!

I've noticed a positive difference in virtually every aspect of my playing.
What surpried me most was what an effect it had on my left hand.
I find i engulf (for want of a better word) the bass, almost like hugging it now, with both forearms upwards. Like a welcoming stance and it seems very natural.

I've gone from regarding the german grip as ugly to enjoying it's aesthetic differences.

I still lug my french bow with me, but seldom use it.