Symphony Harmony: Violin Players and Bowing Coordination
When performing in a professional orchestra, coordination among string players is critical for achieving a unified sound and maintaining the integrity of each musical phrase. This article delves into the bowing techniques used by violin players to ensure they don't poke each other's eyes out while playing, focusing on direction, collaboration, and adapting to different situations.
Key Principles of Bowing in an Orchestra
String players in an orchestra must follow certain key principles to perform smoothly and cohesively. One of the primary rules is that all bows in each section should move in the same direction to avoid collisions and to create a similar musical effect and phrasing.
1. Uniform Bow Movement: An orchestra in which every bow in every string section is moving at the same speed with the same weight at the same angle at the same contact point and with the same amount of bow hair produces an awesome unified string sound. While this is achievable in only a few orchestras, all can strive to move their bows in the same direction.
2. Indicated Bow Directions: Bow direction is generally marked in the music part. When the bowing gets complicated, the composer, arranger, or conductor will indicate the preferred bowing directions. In many cases, the principal players in each string section, in consultation with other principals, set the bowing and mark the parts for the orchestra librarian to distribute.
Interestingly, not all bow directions need to be marked. A general rule is that when the conductor gives the downbeat, all bows move down from the hand area toward the tip area. Conversely, when the conductor gives the upbeat, all bows move upward to prepare for the next downbeat/down bow.
The Role of the First Violinist
The First Violinist's Leadership: In a professional orchestra, the first chair violinist is in charge of setting the bowing direction during rehearsals and concerts. Even in an amateur orchestra, other string players are expected to bow in the same direction as the first chair violinist, even if they unintentionally deviate from the indicated bowing.
During rehearsals, the conductor or principal players may decide to change the bowing directions to achieve a better musical effect. During sight reading, players are even expected to follow the principal's bowing without marked directions.
Challenges and Solutions in Different Situations
Divissi Sections: There are parts where sections are supposed to play divisi, meaning players in the same section divide and play different notes with different bowing. These are preplanned with marked bowing in a well-organized orchestra. However, in cramped or small spaces, using a full bow is not possible, and musicians may use less valuable, shorter bows to adapt.
Some professional conductors have tried to allow each musician to interpret the musical phrase in their own way, assuming that the combined effect of every player's individual bowing and phrasing decisions would create a very musical effect. However, this approach generally does not work well, as it can lead to inconsistencies and a lack of cohesion.
Setting Up for Success
Young players are instructed to set up their chairs, music stands, and meetings in such a way that they can clearly see the conductor and the principal players' bows, ensuring they do not run into each other while maintaining the same direction. This setup enables better communication and coordination during performances.
By following these key principles and adapting their approaches to different situations, string players in an orchestra can maintain harmony and create a cohesive musical experience for audiences.