ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the bow in terms of changing perceptions of the physical movements of the wrist and arm, and some specific bow-strokes. In order to execute any straight cello bow-stroke longer than an inch or so the right wrist must be able to bend. However, virtually all cello methods of any substance describe how, in the course of a down-bow, the wrist will begin raised and gradually sink so that when playing at the tip of the bow it is much lower. The arm from the Shoulder to the Elbow should move as little as possible, the wrist should act freely and be rather supple. The bow must be held firmly; but without stiffness; the wrist free; that is its action; it is from its suppleness that the bow derives all its advantages. Alexanian's spiccato is therefore more akin to earlier players' springing or hupfend stroke, in that the bow remains fairly close to the string.
