Bowing
How to do ricochet
Ricochet (also called jete) is a thrown off-the-string stroke, usually on a down-bow, where the bow is dropped onto the string and allowed to rebound naturally, producing a rapid series of notes (commonly 2 to 12) within a single bow direction. The player initiates one throw and lets the bow's natural bounce generate the repeated notes. Ricochet creates the brilliant, sparkling rapid-note effect in showpieces (for example the Paganini caprices and many encores). It demonstrates advanced understanding of the bow's natural physics.
How to practice it
- 1Hold the bow poised just above one string, let it fall, and catch it on the recoil, feeling the natural rebound.
- 2Start with just two or three rebound notes per throw before attempting longer groups.
- 3Try the stroke in different parts of the bow, from the lower third toward the tip, to feel how response changes.
- 4Use flat hair first for a clear bounce, then experiment with tilting to the side of the hair to hear the difference in response.
- 5Add left-hand notes only after the rebound is consistent on an open string.
Common mistakes
- Forcing each note with the arm instead of letting the bow rebound on its own.
- Throwing the bow too high, making the number of rebounds unpredictable.
- Excess hand tension that damps the natural bounce.
- Choosing a part of the bow where the stick will not rebound easily.
Frequently asked
What is ricochet?
Ricochet (also called jete) is a thrown off-the-string stroke, usually on a down-bow, where the bow is dropped onto the string and allowed to rebound naturally, producing a rapid series of notes (commonly 2 to 12) within a single bow direction. The player initiates one throw and lets the bow's natural bounce generate the repeated notes. Ricochet creates the brilliant, sparkling rapid-note effect in showpieces (for example the Paganini caprices and many encores). It demonstrates advanced understanding of the bow's natural physics.
How do I practice ricochet?
Hold the bow poised just above one string, let it fall, and catch it on the recoil, feeling the natural rebound. Start with just two or three rebound notes per throw before attempting longer groups. Try the stroke in different parts of the bow, from the lower third toward the tip, to feel how response changes. Use flat hair first for a clear bounce, then experiment with tilting to the side of the hair to hear the difference in response. Add left-hand notes only after the rebound is consistent on an open string.
How do I check my ricochet is working?
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