The pitch is used to achieve greater grip and better friction when moving the bow on the strings. The correct procedure for spreading the pitch is simple and can be mastered in a very short time.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Apply Pitch Normally
Step 1. Tighten the headband before applying
Then slide it back and forth in the pitch.
Pull the bow until it is the thickness of a pencil, but not too thick until it is straightened. It should keep its natural curve. Do not touch the hair of the bow: in contact with the skin they become greasy, making the instrument more difficult to play
Step 2. Hold the pitch with your left hand
It doesn't matter if you are left handed or right handed.
Step 3. Hold the bow in your right hand and pass it over the pitch with a natural motion
Make sure the tip and handle of the bow get a lot more pitch soaked than the center.
Step 4. Pass it up to ten times
Don't be afraid to wear too much; although there is no precise rule, the quantity of pitch varies according to a number of factors such as humidity, quality of the hair, the strings of the violin and so on.
Method 2 of 2: Apply the pitch directly
Step 1. Crumble the pitch and apply it to the bow
Step 2. Quickly spread it back and forth about 5-8cm at a time on the headband
This causes it to spread more evenly than the method of applying it from the handle to the tip. This is the best technique to use if you have to play for more than 40 minutes or play a relatively fast piece.
Advice
- Dark pitch and light pitch differ from each other. For example, the first one (walnut or blackish) is softer than the light one, so it is easier to apply to the hair. Some argue that pale pitch is more suitable for violins and violas, while black pitch is more suitable for cello and double bass. There are many varieties of dark and light pitch available for all instruments, and each affects the sound in a slightly different way.
- If the hair on the bow is new, it may be necessary to apply at least three times more pitch on the first application. Find out if the technician has already applied a first coat before putting in too much.
- Remember that rosin consists of hardened resin and that the dust that is created by playing must be removed from the body of the instrument and strings with a soft and dry cloth (preferably 100% cotton) once you have finished playing, otherwise it could bond with the varnish of the instrument (the finish that protects it and gives it shine). If this happens, the ideal solution to eliminate the residue of encrusted pitch is to buy a special mild detergent and an enamel, to replace the one removed by cleaning; or, if you don't want to do it yourself, take the tool to a professional who can perform a thorough and thorough cleaning. Never remove the paint on an instrument without first informing yourself about the repercussions this can have on the value of the instrument. Often, repainted tools lose at least 50% of their original value.
- Some musicians say that if the pitch is new it must be scratched to produce dust, but this is rarely needed, and only with poor quality pitch. Scratching a new stick of pitch can cause the pitch to crack or make it more susceptible to cracking or breaking. In addition, scratching the pitch can lead to the production of larger residues between the hairs and more consistent pitch deposits on the instrument.
- If you are unsure what type of pitch to use, ask your teacher or a professional. Usually, light pitch is more suitable for violins and dark pitch for cellos.
- While spreading the pitch on the bow you can practice holding the bow and moving it the right way, while still being careful not to put too much!
Warnings
- Be careful not to touch the hair of the bow as you roll out the pitch or while playing.
- Some people are allergic to the dust that pitch forms during drafting. In this case, hypoallergenic pitches are available.
- Clean the strings regularly - rosin on the strings causes the same damage as excessive application on the bow.
- Don't put too much effort into applying the pitch, otherwise you risk hitting something with the bow … like hitting a person's eye or hitting a concrete wall, which could be fatal for the bow itself!
