If your violin bow hair is touching the wood, it is usually a sign that the bow hair is too loose. This can happen for a few reasons, such as:
- The bow hair is old and needs to be rehaired. Bow hair typically lasts for about 6 months to a year, depending on how often it is used. If your bow hair is older than this, it is more likely to become loose.
- The bow hair has been damaged. Bow hair can be damaged by being exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, or by being cut or frayed. If your bow hair is damaged, it is more likely to become loose.
- The bow has been dropped or mishandled. If your bow has been dropped or mishandled, it can damage the bow hair or the bow stick. This can cause the bow hair to become loose.
If your violin bow hair is touching the wood, it is important to take it to a luthier to have it repaired. The luthier will be able to rehair the bow or repair any damage to the bow stick.
In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to prevent the bow hair from touching the wood:
- Avoid playing with too much pressure. When you are bowing, make sure that you are using the correct amount of pressure. Too much pressure can put unnecessary strain on the bow hair, which can cause it to become loose.
- Store your bow properly. Keep your bow in a case when it is not in use. This will help to protect the bow hair from extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Avoid dropping or mishandling your bow. If you are careful with your bow, you can help to prevent it from becoming damaged.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your violin bow in good condition and prevent the bow hair from touching the wood.
Here are some additional tips that may help:
- If you are using a new bow, start with a lower tension and gradually increase it as the hair breaks in.
- If you are playing a lot, consider getting your bow rehaired more often than every 6 months.
- If you live in a humid climate, you may need to have your bow rehaired more often.
- If you are playing in extreme temperatures, you may need to take precautions to protect your bow, such as storing it in a cool, dry place.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your violin bow in good condition and prevent the bow hair from touching the wood.
