The Technique of the Violin, 1700-61 (II): The Right Hand. The Bow Stroke and Bow Change. The Rule of Down-Bow

Abstract

Abstract Tn theighteenth century, as always, the musical effectiveness of the violinist depended on the skilful co-ordination of the right and left hand, each of which played a distinct role, but a role that was complementary to the other. The left hand was responsible for fingering and for certain means of attaining expression and colour, notably vibrato, ornaments, harmonics, and the tone colours of different strings in their different hand positions. The right hand was responsible for producing the tone in general and for giving it an expressive eloquence through the variety of bow strokes, through the dynamic nuances applied to them, and through such special effects as pizzicato and sul ponticello. While these are the general responsibilities of the right and left hand in all periods of violin playing, a difference of degree or emphasis distinguishes one period from another. Compared to modern custom, for instance, the eighteenth-century violinist used a less intense vibrato, he used it less frequently, and he practised a bow stroke that was less sustained but more articulated and nuanced.