ABSTRACT
String players rarely agree on bowings, and the same piece can be played successfully with a variety of bowings. Similarly, dynamics or accents require a different approach. When choosing bowings, consider the following guidelines. Sometimes string players need to adjust the bowings so that the downbeat can be played with a down-bow. Retakes are also used at the end of a phrase where a natural breath would occur between the phrases in the music. Usually, string players will choose to hook the bow so that the bow distribution logically allows them to return to a specific location in the bow. Slurs may be added or removed to allow for more practical bowings. Some groups may choose to change the bowings for additional control. The even/odd rule explains how to approach entrances following rests or pickups at the beginning of a piece. Hooked bows can be indicated two different ways.
