Violin technique - Violin Institute London

Sautillé vs Spiccato: Understanding Fast Bouncing Bow Strokes

Stefan Joubert2026-06-23T10:45:29+01:00

For many violinists, the moment they first encounter rapid bouncing bow strokes can be both exciting and confusing. Terms such as sautillé and spiccato are often used interchangeably, yet they describe two distinct bowing techniques with different mechanics, sounds and musical purposes. Sautillé vs spiccato: understanding fast bouncing bow strokes can help violinists approach fast passages more confidently and develop greater control over their bow technique. Whether you are studying classical repertoire, orchestral excerpts or virtuosic showpieces, recognising when and how to use each stroke is an important step in your musical development. What Is Spiccato? Spiccato is a bow stroke [...]

Why Does My Violin Squeak? Common Causes And Solutions

2026-05-22T10:21:53+01:00

A squeaking violin can feel deeply frustrating, especially when you are trying to play with confidence and expression. One moment the note seems ready to sing; the next, the sound breaks into an unexpected whistle, scratch or squeak. Many adult learners immediately wonder: why does my violin squeak? The encouraging answer is that squeaking is usually not a sign of poor musical ability. It is most often a technical message. Once you understand what causes it, you can begin to prevent it with calm, focused practice. The Bow Is Not Moving Straight One of the most common causes of squeaking is [...]