Most students and parents who bought their first Violin or Cello are excited to test out the instrument when they brought it home, only to be bewildered that no sound is produced when they put the bow to the strings. What’s missing? Well, it is the Rosin!
Bows are made from Horse tails and they’re obviously really dry when they’re new. These are some simple steps to rosin the bow for first time use:
- Use a sandpaper to remove the glossy surface of the rosin (optional but recommended)
- Start from the bottom of the bow, work out a 6 inch section for about a minute each time, all the way to the top.
- Be patient. It may take a few minutes during the initial bow preparation process.
- Wipe off any excess rosin powder on the bow or violin strings with a lint free cloth.