Wood Viola Bows

To get the absolute most out of your viola you need a high-quality bow that is comfortable and easy to use. But unfortunately, with so many wood viola bows out there to choose from, finding the perfect one isn’t always easy.  

But at The Long Island Violin Shop, we not only have one of the best selections of wooden viola bows in the Northeast, but we also have skilled musicians and luthiers who are always on hand to help you whenever you might need it. 

Choosing the ideal wooden viola bow for your unique situation all comes down to which one fits your needs and personal preferences best. But that’s not all you need to be considering. You also need to take into account the bow’s weight and feel, the wood it is made from, its shape (round or actagonal), its components, and of course, its price. 

Wooden Viola Bows

Two of the most important factors that can affect a bow’s performance are its weight and feel. Some players may prefer a featherlight bow while others may like their bows to have a little more heft to them. Some prefer a perfectly balanced bow while others like the tip to carry a bit of weight. This level of personal preference is why it is always recommended to test out various wood viola bows on your instrument before making your purchasing decision. 

The wood that’s used to make the viola bow can also impact how the bow feels and plays. Most wooden violin bows are made from either Pernambuco or Brazilwood. Pernambuco’s unique strength and resilience make it wonderfully responsive to a player’s skills.

Brazilwood, on the other hand, is made from a variety of different tropical wood species. Wood viola bows made from this type of wood tend to a little heavier than those made from Pernambuco. 

Of these two materials, a bow made from Pernambuco tends to be more responsive to the vibrations of the viola. Many professional musicians also believe that Pernambuco wood bows can produce richer sounds and allow for more free-flowing performances.

That said, choosing a bow made from Brazilwood can sometimes benefit the beginning player. These bows can still produce a lovely sound, but their heavier weight helps make them more durable, especially when in the hands of young players. 

Ultimately, whether you choose a wood viola bow made from Brazilwood or Pernambuco depends on how the bow feels in your hands as you play your instrument. Every player is different and their relationship with their bow is deeply personal. If you need help finding the perfect wood viola bow to suit your skills and personal preferences, call The Long Island Violin Shop at (855) 343-3535 to schedule a visit to our beautiful showroom in Huntington, New York. Our staff of players and luthiers will help guide you to finding the perfect wood viola bows for your needs and budget.