Cello Bow Basics | How To Music | Sarah Joy

[@robertmaya3820]

I am 55 years old and I am finally beginning to learn the cello after having played reed instruments for so many years. I was told by a teacher when I was young that string instrument players were born, not made. With your help I am quickly proving that teacher wrong! Yes, his comment has stayed with me after all these years. Thank you for making these videos as they, along with my lessons have helped me progress rather quickly.

[@waluyawaluya9285]

Age is not restriction. Keep good spirit in practice & plz don't forget to share to us.

[@edfox6921]

Haha, you beat me. I'm 52, was learning violin from watching my 8 year old, and now I'm slowly jumping on to cello

[@jasonfrost5025]

Science actually proves people like that wrong anyway. They've basically proven that you can learn any instrument to a professional level at any age. There's no difference between starting young and starting older--it all just comes down to dedicated practice for all ages.

[@dylanduke1075]

You’ve such a good, non-condescending, succinct and clear way of teaching. Thanks!

[@ewy1039]

23 day's till my first cello lesson!! Seriously counting down and being very impatient. So excited to finally learn the cello! Wanted to learn the cello when I was 6years old, now at 28y I finally have the opportunity and support to do so. I'll be picking up my cello the last week off august and I know that will be an emotional moment for me! Love learning things already in your amazing tutorials. Greetings from Belgium!

[@cliffordandrews8487]

have you stuck with it?

[@peggyw4143]

I've planned to sell my cello after two years of not touching it. I've struggled with position and postures, my instructor was very impatient and very discouraging. After 4 years of playing, I decided to give up. After watching your video, I feel really inspired to re-learn this beautiful instrument again as a hobby:)

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

That's so great!! Yes, you might try it again with a better teacher perhaps.

[@andykemp5238]

Just taken up the cello after playing the piano for nearly 50 years. I think I will be visiting your tutorials a lot and have already learnt much, many thanks. I am planning to see a tutor as well to help guide me further

[@rakaiah]

Just wanted to say hi, and thanks for your tutorials. Just discovered you after getting a cello for Christmas! I'm a complete beginner in anything music, and your videos are going to make it so much easier for me! Thanks!

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Hi Paulina, that's so cool to hear! Congratulations on your new instrument, and I hope that my videos can continue to help you. :)

[@joanyhester1737]

Hey paulina. I just got a cello too, I have never even played one before so I am a complete beginner too, I wish you luck on learning to play😊

[@rakaiah]

Thanks and good luck to you too!

[@jasmineburt1954]

Paulina Eva hi just wanted to say I have been playing cello for seven years and I know you will absolutely love it 💛 p.s I'm fourteen

[@marianahmed8401]

Paulina Eva 👍

[@jacquelinetwigg6583]

Thank you - have just started learning with a teacher but this extra support is invaluable - such a lovely teaching style too! Thanks for your generosity in sharing.

[@emitosy4530]

I'm 13 and just got my first cello. These videos are so helpful, thanks!

[@usuaggie83]

I know this video is more than 4 years old, but I wanted to thank you for it. I am teaching a brand new student and it's my first time teaching! I watched a number of videos but they didn't resonate with how I play. I worried I was doing it wrong and was going to mess it up for my student. But your comments and techniques go right along with my techniques. Thank you!

[@ashleylorenzo9935]

I'm so glad I found you. I just bought a cello of my own yesterday. I've been wanting to learn how to play it for years and I finally managed to gather up some spare change and get it. I'm not a beginner in music but I am a beginner in string instrumentation. Though it will be challenging, the way you explain everything in your videos will make cello playing sooooo much easier. Thank you so much for your videos!!!!

[@ziltornblom9549]

These videos are amazing for back to school reminders when I've barely practiced all summer. Beginning of the year is usually so rough for me to get back into the groove of things. Plus your playing is so beautiful!

[@yuliawhatson296]

Hi, your cello bow tutorial is really helpful. Thank you for sharing and teaching how to hold the bow, it really helping me because I'm struggling to do it in a comfortable position. Love your tutorial ❤

[@gemimappley8445]

My cello is due to arrive either tomorrow or the day after and I'm so excited and watching your videos in preparation. Thank you for making your videos really easy to follow and understand even without an instrument 💕

[@Olivia-xt1rx]

How are things 5 years later?

[@jeremymcclellan474]

Hey there, I played the cello for 8 years......16 years ago. I received a cello for Christmas and I'm relearning!

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

That's exciting! I bet it'll all come back to you very quickly.

[@jeremymcclellan474]

True story! I can't believe how fast it's coming back! Thank you for all of your videos, both the tutorials and the music. You're on my short list of favorites!

[@kelvynification]

You are really an excellent teacher. Thanks!

[@mufasa2338]

I just started cello and you help me so much thank god for you

[@ryanmarlowe20]

Your videos are so helpful 😃 Thank you for mentioning that the wood of the bow is tilted slightly towards your face. My bow hold has been very tense and I'm positive that changing that angle is going to do wonders for relaxing my hand whilst bowing!

[@karinagerein2145]

I went and got a cello a few days ago to expand on my musical skills! With a busy university/life schedule I don't currently have time for lessons (but I do plan on them when I can). SO, I turned to youtube to get me started. I came across your videos, and I'm glad I did! You explain things so well and I don't get bored watching! Subscribed. :)

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Hi Karina! Thanks for the comment. It's tough starting on a new instrument without a teacher, but I'm so glad that my videos can help. :)

[@jamesliu327]

Thank you for sharing this Sarah.

[@terrymahoney3709]

Your tutorials are excellent help for this beginning celloist. I wish I would have taken up the instrument way back in my youth.I'm 69 now, taking my first lessons and backing them up with your help. Merci beaucoup, Sarah Joy.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Honestly, starting at a later age might make the process even more enjoyable. Having started as a child, I often take music for granted.

[@BankrolleXXXpelled]

Getting a cello in 7 days, it's gonna be lit👌🏼

[@anabelle3179]

ExtraLargeBurger was it lit? I just got mine yesterday and I'm excited!

[@davidwalsh8475]

I got my first cello today! Very helpful video, thank you :-)

[@dhruvchawla]

A very good insight on Cello learning, I am eager to learn the cello, hope so I can at 41. However I have never learned any music instrument earlier. Hope so I can! thanks a lot Sarah

[@jasonfrost5025]

They've done studies that show the brain behaves the same whether you're 4 or 41 when learning instruments. Age is irrelevant--just practice.

[@TheJanainSeattle]

Hi Sarah.. thanks so much for this tutorial.. While I've played stringed instruments in the past, I've never played a BOWED instrument.. and being an adult beginner, with a musical background, I was looking for JUST THIS KIND OF INFORMATION.. postures... how to hold the bow, how to draw the bow etc... I will be taking lessons, but I wanted to get a jump start.. and this helped a LOT! thanks so much.. you explain things quite well.. I'm looking forward to more of your tutorials! thanks!

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Wonderful!! It's always encouraging when people let me know that these tutorials are actually making a difference. :)

[@sarahbroome5304]

I have a similar question to a previous comment. I just started cello, and I have ligament problems. holding the bow can actually be very painful, as well as curving my hand to finger notes. do you think this will eventually get better? I really hope it does, I refuse to give up playing for it!

[@anabelle3179]

Sarah Broome That is normal (in my opinion) when I first started violin, it was very uncomfortable at first, but after a few months-year I got used to it. I just started cello, and it's also uncomfortable, but it is slowly getting more comfortable to play. I suggest just practicing more, and making sure it's right. Also, practice in short sessions. I need to practice three hours a day, but that will be very tiring. So I do just 30 minute sessions so my arms or hands don't get tired and start hurting.

[@jetfuel6043]

Thank you so much because I am a violinist switching to be a cellist and I am very excited and now I'm am prepared because of you thanks!

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Oh awesome!! :) Happy I can help.

[@Person-ed2ys]

I dont own a cello (really want one) but im still watching this. I really like your way of teaching!

[@schmeggynz]

can you please do a video on humidifiers please

[@asanoen1777]

You are wonderful thank you..

[@HeartOfFire666x]

I've wanted to learn cello for around 10 years now, but I've never had the money to buy one. I never knew there was so much involved with cello playing - I'm planning on getting a cello very soon and your videos have really prepared me and I know they're going to help so much!

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Indeed, quite a lot! I'm glad though that you haven't let that discourage you! That's exciting. :)

[@TeamHanssonAction]

Thank you so much for this video. Have not watch all your videos yet but I will 😊, would love to see some cloae up shots of how you hold the bow and stuff like that. Maybe you do in newer videos, otherwise I would love to see that 😊 Again, thanks

[@jonnysouthard3447]

Great advice and great video. I've just bought a cello and needed a clear explanation on the basics. This was perfect. Thanks :)

[@kaliheera2136]

How do you know where to press the string to change one semitone? I am asking as a pianist switching to cello and it bamboozles me since there are no frets like on the guitar.

[@marykatherinesimrell7198]

L.Y. Same, I️ am adding cello to my instruments. I am a pianist, but my best friends, who are sisters, play violin. I️ used to want to play violin with them really bad. Until I️ realized that I️ really wanted to play cello. I just moved away from where they are to a different state, but they are moving up here!!! Can’t wait to play with them as a string trio

[@taylurkade]

Really enjoy your videos and appreciate your caring and generous attitude. I;m a 72 year young male, even though my name is Kelly. I thought about renting but decided to buy a cheap one, a white beautiful Cello from online Sears. I have accepted the fact that most things are made in China. Both Trombones I have were made there and they are great. Now, my bow doesn't make any sound when drawn across the strings. Did I miss something. Is it the lack of rosin? Please elaborate.

[@danielp1629]

1. You are beautiful 2. You are smart 3. I learned A BUNCH!! A HUGE Thank you to you for this video.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Such a sweet comment - thank you!!!

[@STEVEI731]

Your tutorials are invaluable, thank you for sharing! One question I do have is how taunt should the bow hair be? I’m having trouble with getting a consistent sound because the bow hops on the strings. Thought maybe I didn’t have the bow adjustment right.

[@papidey23]

I'm planning on buying a cello, it sounds really beautiful!

[@Cellopro]

quick question on the thumb on the bow. We all know the "curved" thumb, but what do you think about the "flat" thumb?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

+Paul Fleury I think there is a time and a place for flat thumb depending on which bow stroke you are attempting. And of course, everyone is a little different. I think one should just do what sounds good and feels good.

[@patricialopez4409]

i just like your vídeos so much

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Thank so much Patricia :D

[@alexus2817]

You’re the only person I’m learning from

[@kaelynsuee]

Hi Sarah! Could you please make a video on cello rosin. And why my cello strings can't go any tighter without snapping but are still out of tune?? Thank you ♥️

[@JacquesKinnaerCello]

Thanks for yet another great video. It's always good, especially at a beginner level, to be reminded of the "basics" and go back to them on a regular basis. I also appreciate how you stressed the there are different theories, and that each individual is different. :-)

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

I agree. You always want to stay grounded. And that is something I've always found to be funny. A lot of teachers are convinced that their way is the perfect way, but really, there are many different ways to go about things. You just have to ask: "Does it sound good, and does it feel good?"

[@kawaiibunny8609]

I need this

[@eylam9690]

There are indeed a lot of opinions when it comes to playing instruments. I personally tend to stick with the Taubman approach; if something is not ergonomic and causes discomfort or even pain I ditch it and find a more organic way of playing. At the end of the day, we all come in different shapes and sizes, so you gotta listen to your own body.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Yes, precisely!!

[@yeetusdeletus6572]

How do you go from the d to the c note on the a string

[@ascerian6917]

So I've developed a bad habit with holding my bow to where my pinky is straight and I tend to have too tight of a grip on it as well, this happens when I play either my cello or my violin. Is there any way to get around changing this? I'm not comfortable holding it any other way since I've played like this for years but it's always felt awkward.

[@alfredoronco9270]

Thank you fore the videos i am a violin player and i want to lern how to play the cello now

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

I certainly don't want to distract you from learning the violin, but I do have to say that the cello is quite fun to play. :)

[@JeremyGalloway]

I have an issue where sometimes my bow won’t catch the string very well and the strings will sort of ring, sounding an octave higher than usual (C3 instead of C2, etc). It even happens on open strings. Is this a technique issue or a rosin issue? It’s driving me crazy and can’t find any info!

[@jimwrathall5323]

Sarah, the problem I am having with the bow is that sometime the strings start at the octave higher harmonic, and then settle down to the basic frequency. I am new, I have a cheap cello, cheap bow, questionable strings, little skill, but pretty good grade rosin. I suspect that my inferior technique is the worst of it. In this same problem area is dreadful sounds when changing bow directions. Thank you...

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

The bow is probably not making full contact with the string as soon as the bow starts moving. To fix this, use the first finger of your bow hand to its fullest capability. Treat it like a little shovel. Dig in as soon as you move the bow.

[@peggyw4143]

Sarah thanks for the video. I've tried your method of holding the bow. Is it normal for my thumb to be painful after a while?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Pain indicates quite a lot of tension. I would have to actually see your bow hold before I could tell you what exactly was wrong.

[@alexnguyen9316]

Sarah, great videos. Appreciate what you are doing. Here's to hoping my 12 y/o becomes a great cellist like you.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

I just hope that they can help. :) Find her a good teacher, and have her practice every day! Nothing she won't be able to do.

[@hannah11153]

Hey I just started learning cello I'm a beginner and it seems like the bow hair is breaking off really easily. How do I stop this from happening how do I take good care of the bow?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Always make sure that you loosen your bow after practicing. Other than that, you may need to send it to a repair shop.

[@noeliacocconi560]

Hi Sarah! I want to learn to play cello, thanks for your videos. I'm left handed, I know I have to use the bow with the right hand, do you have any advices for these students? Thanks!

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

I've been receiving these questions so much recently! And I wish I knew more about it. I'll do my research, and try to get back to you on that.

[@gerdienbakker9187]

what kind of wood is your cello? im looking for a good cello that stays in tune and stuff ^^ or what kind of wood is your advice? xo love your tutorials♥

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Tbh, I wouldn't know much about that. Buying a good cello just depends on the price range, brand, and your own personal opinion.

[@alyssavasena4939]

I have a question!! Before you play do you tighten the bow or losen it

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Tighten :)

[@alyssavasena4939]

Sarah Joy Ty 💕

[@ginadunn1223]

I know to tighten the bow, but exactly HOW tight is my question. I am 48 and just now learning, your videos have been a Godsend. As someone has already commented, I was told it wasn't a good idea to choose the cello that it is too difficult and should have started at a very young age. I took that advice as a personal challenge, and with your help I plan to prove them wrong. 😊

[@marianomendez9130]

I'm left handed. But, that's not going to be a problem. I was a trombonist for many years and I use my right hand to glide the slide and the left hand to hold the trombone. You don't want to seat at an orchestra bowing with your left hand. At the beginning it feels like the bow weights a hundred pounds.

[@lizleach1306]

Hi Thank you so much for your lesson. I wonder if you could help. I am finding it difficult to maintain the correct bow position when I am playing, I find I am gripping the bow between the thumb and index finger and not the thumb and the two middle fingers. I am concerned about progressing my learning until I have git basic technique right..... do you have any tips of how I could change this habit?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

There are so many exercises for the bow hand, but actually, you should be balancing the bow between your thumb, first finger, and pinky. One exercise is to practice scales while keeping the two middle fingers completely lifted off of the bow.

[@lizleach1306]

Sarah Joy Thank you.... that is a trillion times better xx

[@kianaabryanna8666]

How long do you think it will take to learn cello and be able to play Bach?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Well, I think the learning process is a little different for everybody, but perhaps a year to two years. But of course, Bach is not something you just learn and complete. The learning process will last your entire life.

[@dancosta1577]

Cello

[@barriereid9244]

🌹🌹🌹

[@namjoonie4884]

How do you avoid accidentally playing 2 strings? I've playing for about a year and a half I still accidentally play 2 strings and it sounds really bad 😅

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Memorize as much material as you can so that you can watch your bow as you play. :)

[@olufemioyewole3040]

Hello Sarah, thanks for the video. please I really need your help. I was told I cant handle my bow with left hand but I find it difficult handling it with right..............any advise from you?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

One of my students actually decided to switch hands. Until then, I had never encountered that, and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. Are you unable to handle it due to an injury?

[@olufemioyewole3040]

Thanks for the response Sarah. Both hands are in good condition. But I've really indulged myself with using my left hand while eating with spoon...and handling so many other things.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Because I am not terribly familiar with this situation, I cannot advise you with confidence. However, my father is a Juilliard graduate who plays the violin. He's left-handed, but plays the same way as a right-handed person would. I would recommend to just build up the strength and coordination in your right hand, and be patient with the progress.

[@olufemioyewole3040]

+Sarah Joy ...thanks for the responses. they've been of great inspiration to me! !!

[@isabelle2873]

Where did u get that painting in the background

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

+belle a. I painted it :)

[@Maya-mu4rv]

How do you make your fingers look so relaxed? Mine are so tense 😂

[@janellebrookephoto]

that helped

[@marykatherinesimrell7198]

I️ subscribed

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Thank you for subscribing! :)

[@Rad1oD3mon]

+Sarah Joy, +1 subscriber

[@bteplik]

Super helpful, thank you!! 👏

[@WorldsSilliestGooseEver]

I subbed

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Thank you!!

[@Morkrig_Official]

thanks a lot no need of getting a teacher

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Oh no! Haha I wouldn't use my videos as a replacement, but I am glad that they're helping.

[@denismunhoz5254]

nice video s2.

[@jashantoys3284]

I am indian

[@matthewbyrd7586]

How wear your teachers

[@memories2remember1117]

Can. You. Play. A. Piano

[@Legend-xi3on]

This taught me I have horrible bow hold

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

I do hope that it helps to fix it!

[@desertfox432]

More Cow Bell I said... More cowbell​ please.

[@MayAllMyDelusions]

I've been playing two months, and I had just assumed that you were supposed to play "flat hair". Shit.

[@MayAllMyDelusions]

I also started sticking my elbow out more so my wrist wasn't so bent! Damn it! haha First time I've been tempted to get lessons when learning an instrument.

[@MrAkifusion]

Such amateurs shouldn’t be allowed to “teach”.

[@adsertheblade]

You bow hold is VERY bad, and people following your example will probably end up with injury, as it creates extra tension in the forearm. You should remove this video, and refrain from making more until you learn how to hold you bow properly

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

I have studied with professors from Curtis, Eastman, and Juilliard. They all taught me these basic rules. Bow holds for each individual person may vary, however, so what works for me may not work perfectly for you. I am interested in learning what your technique is. Would you mind sharing? Thank you.

[@adsertheblade]

@@sarahjoyrecordings I couldn't possibly share this video as it shows a completely incorrect bow hold. The third finger that curls around the bow is not something that anyone that is a real cellist would teach. If that's what you were taught, then julliard has become a place to avoid. Perhaps you bow hold has simply deteriorated over time. Either way, this video is teaching bad technique and you should take it down. As you can see from the comments, those who don't know any better think that they are learning the correct way to hold a bow.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

No, I’m not asking you to share my video, I’m asking you to share more information about your own bow hold. I’m genuinely curious! From any and all cellists with whom I have discussed bow technique, they all say that you should follow basic rules, but stick to what fits your hand comfortably. Where does your third finger go? Also, my third finger is not wrapped. Perhaps it is the camera angle that creates that appearance. The tip merely hangs slightly (very slightly) over the frog.

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Which, is also something up for debate. I think if I were to change anything, I’d connect the tip of the third finger to the bow instead of connecting the pad. There are different opinions on this, but I’ve been experimenting. I personally think you have more sensitivity when “playing with your fingertips”.

[@adsertheblade]

@@sarahjoyrecordings I would suggest that there is not one right way to do things, but there are definite wrong ways. A video I would consider my style is the following: Cello lesson: a relaxed bow hold--tension be gone. That will explain everything I would tell you.

[@lulahugo4208]

As someone who plays multiple instruments (bass guitar, guitar, piano, ukulele) I would really like to learn the cello in a serious manner. My issue is I do not want to abandon and forget my other musical endeavors, do you have any tips on staying on top of those whilst also learning the cello?

[@sarahjoyrecordings]

Out of the instruments you listed, cello is the hardest and will require the most focus. I suppose it depends on your goals with learning the cello. I don't know your age, but if you're young and hoping to become a professional cellist, you'd better plan on practicing cello for about 4-5 hours per day.

[@randyrrs7028]

@@sarahjoyrecordings what instruments do you play besides cello?