Violin Grade 8: Technique

What you'll learn

1. 1

   Imagine you're holding your violin bow like a magic wand 🪄. The tip is the lightest part, and the frog (the bit you hold) is the heaviest.

2. 2

   Which end of the bow is heavier?

3. 3

   Try a long, slow bow stroke from frog to tip on the D string 🎶. Keep the bow straight and the pressure even.

4. 4

   Let's practise a tricky shift — moving from first position to third position on the A string 🎵.

5. 5

   When shifting to a higher position, what should your thumb do?

6. 6

   Now try a fast scale in G major — two octaves, using your best bow control 🎻. Start at the frog and make each note clear.

7. 7

   What is the most important thing for a smooth bow change?