In preparation to play violins, cellos, and other bowed stringed instruments, musicians put rosin on their bows. Rosin is a substance that is extracted from trees and used to coat the bow hairs that glide over the instrument’s strings. The friction created helps the strings to create clear and crisp sounds. Learn more about which bow rosin will help your instrument produce warm, rich music with this helpful guide.

Different Types of Rosin for Stringed Instruments

Rosins are made from the sap of pines and other trees and are available in powder and solid forms. Some rosins are stickier than others, which affects the instrument’s tone. Rosins are typically categorized by color, ranging from light yellow to black.

The hue is based on the age of the tree the sap was extracted from and how hot it was heated during distillation. Some rosins also contain metal additives to enhance the complexity of the sound. Gold, for example, adds clarity to the tone while silver enhances it.  

What to Consider When Buying Rosin

The type of instrument you have will help determine which type of rosin to get. Amber rosin is often used for violins because it creates less friction, which produces lighter sounds. Darker, more sticky varieties are used to help deep sounds resonate from bass strings.

Your playing style should also be taken into account. If you apply a lot of pressure to the bow, choose a light or amber rosin to avoid excessive friction. If you play with a light hand, dark rosin will help the hairs maintain grip.  The amount of rosin applied will also affect the tone and clarity.  If there is an excess amount of rosin on your instrument after playing, you may be applying to much creating an unclear tone.

Speed of application may also create heat and make your rosin “glaze” on the bow hair.  Always apply with long, slow even strokes. Your local luthier will also have recommendations on which rosin to use and proper application.

If you play a fine instrument, the experts at The String House in Rochester, NY, have all the products you need. With over 50 years of experience serving customers throughout Upstate New York, this stringed instrument store is known for its selection of violins, violas, cellos, and accessories. Call (585) 442-9272 to inquire about the inventory or find details online. Keep up with store announcements on Facebook.