Double Bass Bow Slide on E string

[Rayzorx]

I've just started learning to bow (French) so I'm just working on playing open strings and focusing on good even tone.

I have a new Glassel bow, and currently use Pops rosin.
I've noticed that when I play Up Bow on the E string, the bow seems to slide on the string for about 1/3 the bow length before the rosin grabs and vibrates the string.

At first I thought I didn't have enough rosin, and added more. But the other strings seem fine when I play them., so I don't think that's it. I'm being very careful not to force the bow, but let my arm weight move it.

Can it be that I'm not at the correct angle with the bow? Or, since I practice standing up, maybe a poor stance is creating this poor angle? Any suggestions are welcome.

 

[GriffithLea]

Can it be that I'm not at the correct angle with the bow? Or, since I practice standing up, maybe a poor stance is creating this poor angle? Any suggestions are welcome.

Are you aware that lower notes require a slower bow speed? Slow bow is like slow flight in an airplane or riding a bike slowly - it takes skill which only comes from practice.

It could be that you are too close to the bridge.

You need to add just a bit of downward pressure on the string at the attack, and immediately ease off as the bow begins to travel. For upbow, this requires a counterclockwise twist of the wrist with the tip end of the bow on the string (but don't get ridiculously close to the tip - stay a couple of inches away from the tip).

Try some slow upbows on the E starting at about the halfway point on the bow and just below the lowest part of the fingerboard. As you gain skill, start closer to the tip and closer to the bridge.

Also, it could be that the hair on the bow is "stale" or of poor quality. Try some other bows and see if it helps. Go easy on the rosin - more than 3 or 4 swipes per hour of practice is too much.

 

[jallenbass]

New hair needs more rosin at first. Later you can back off if you want.

 

[Rayzorx]

Thanks guys. I'll give your suggestions a try.

 

[Rayzorx]

Griffithlea,

Your advise about the counter clockwise wrist movement on the up bow made a big difference! I have very little sliding now.

I also video taped my bowing across the strings and boy do I suck! I've read on TB that using a mirror during practice is good for feedback. I'm getting one this weekend.

Thanks for the tips.

 

[GriffithLea]

Griffithlea,

Your advise about the counter clockwise wrist movement on the up bow made a big difference! I have very little sliding now.

Good! A little extra pressure provides the necessary "traction" to get the string moving, eh?

One other thing that I forgot to mention - strive to make sure that the bow stays perpendicular to the string as much as possible.

I also video taped my bowing across the strings and boy do I suck! I've read on TB that using a mirror during practice is good for feedback. I'm getting one this weekend.

That can help. Have you thought about taking a lesson (or lessons) from a teacher?

Thanks for the tips.

You're welcome - I'm glad it was helpful.

 

[Rayzorx]

Yes!
I took my first URB lesson this past Saturday. And my teacher has a full length mirror so I can see when my wrist starts drooping.

So I have to watch my wrist, concentrate on my bow pressure and speed, and listen for my intonation. Oh yeah, and keep one eye on the charts. Talk about multi-tasking!