whenever i cross from the a to e string on a down bow i get a really high pitched squeak. im not sure if this is a technique problem, bow problem or maybe violin problem. any thoughts would be appreciated.

I get that sometimes, it`s when your bow isn`t quite parallel, just try bowing with a flatter hair when you have to cross.

Since you mentioned "down bow", generally it is to do with putting too much weight weight on the bow. Your arm, at least your forearm is weighing down on the bow, and you are pulling down the bow as well: squeaks and scratches can`t help themselves. So lose some weight.

If you like football, then it`s the same as running with the ball (the ball is the bow, in our case). The ball is not going to float away that you have to press it down; it will just roll as you tap it on the side. Its the same thing with bowing. The bow "rolls" on the strings and you only have to "tap" it, just gently push it.

The weight of the bow is enough to make a good resonant sound, so you don`t need to press it down. So to avoid pressing down the bow against the strings, feel your hand is light with the bow.

When you cross strings, you are "tapping" the bow to make it "roll" in a slightly different direction. Concentrate on making your bow and bowing hand feel light.



Jay

thanks a lot guys. both things helped.