Bowing
How to do spiccato
Spiccato is a controlled off-the-string stroke where the bow leaves the string between notes, producing a crisp, bouncing, articulated sound. Each bounce is deliberately controlled by the player rather than left to the bow alone, which distinguishes it from sautille. It is typically played near the balance point, a little above the frog, for moderate-to-fast passages. Spiccato is essential for the light, articulate passages common in concertos, etudes (Kreutzer, Mazas), and orchestral excerpts. Panels use it to judge bow control and rhythmic evenness off the string.
How to practice it
- 1Find the balance point of your bow (a bit above the frog) and let the bow drop and rebound on an open string, catching each bounce.
- 2Start slow and brushy: think of a controlled, almost horizontal motion so each note has a clear start, then gradually shorten the contact.
- 3Practice on open strings first with even, repeated bounces before adding left-hand notes.
- 4Apply it to a scale at a moderate tempo (around 100 to 120 BPM) before pushing speed, keeping every bounce even in height and length.
- 5Use a mirror or video to check that your contact point stays consistent and the bounces are the same size.
Common mistakes
- Bouncing too high, which makes the stroke uncontrolled and scratchy.
- Trying to play it too fast; at very high speeds it should transition to sautille instead.
- Forcing the bounce with the arm instead of letting the bow's natural rebound help.
- Inconsistent contact point, causing some notes to speak and others to drop out.
Frequently asked
What is spiccato?
Spiccato is a controlled off-the-string stroke where the bow leaves the string between notes, producing a crisp, bouncing, articulated sound. Each bounce is deliberately controlled by the player rather than left to the bow alone, which distinguishes it from sautille. It is typically played near the balance point, a little above the frog, for moderate-to-fast passages. Spiccato is essential for the light, articulate passages common in concertos, etudes (Kreutzer, Mazas), and orchestral excerpts. Panels use it to judge bow control and rhythmic evenness off the string.
How do I practice spiccato?
Find the balance point of your bow (a bit above the frog) and let the bow drop and rebound on an open string, catching each bounce. Start slow and brushy: think of a controlled, almost horizontal motion so each note has a clear start, then gradually shorten the contact. Practice on open strings first with even, repeated bounces before adding left-hand notes. Apply it to a scale at a moderate tempo (around 100 to 120 BPM) before pushing speed, keeping every bounce even in height and length. Use a mirror or video to check that your contact point stays consistent and the bounces are the same size.
How do I check my spiccato is working?
Record a passage that uses it and get scored on tone, evenness, and intonation, the same things a teacher listens for. The recording reveals what your ears miss in the room. Your first take is free, no signup.
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Record a passage and the panel scores your tone, evenness, and intonation. First take is free, no signup.
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