History and Design of the Iconic Voirin Bow for Violin and Viola

The History and Design of the Voirin Bow

The voirin bow, also known as the French bow, has a long and storied history in the world of stringed instruments. Made famous by renowned luthiers like Francois Xavier Tourte, the voirin bow helped revolutionize the design of the modern bow. In this article, we'll explore the origins, evolution, and unique qualities of this iconic bow.

The Early History of the Voirin Bow

Early bowed instruments like the rebec, lyra, and lira da braccio emerged in medieval Europe in the 11th century. These primitive instruments were played with simple curved sticks. As early fiddles and violins developed, so did the need for more advanced bows. Craftsmen in Italy, France, and Germany began experimenting with better bow designs in the 16th and 17th centuries.

The voirin bow traces its origins to 17th century France. French bow makers pioneered the use of flexible wooden sticks, frog mounts, and inclination in their bows. French luthier Andre Claude Voirin (1680-1772) helped further advance French bow design. His innovations established the groundwork for the modern voirin French bow.

Francois Xavier Tourte and the Modern Voirin Bow

The iconic design of the modern voirin bow is largely attributed to the master luthier Francois Xavier Tourte (1747-1835). Hailed as the "Stradivari of bow makers," Tourte introduced major innovations that revolutionized the voirin French bow.

Tourte introduced consistent camber and bend in the wooden stick. He pioneered using pernambuco, a Brazilian wood ideal for bows due to its combination of flexibility, strength, and weight. The frogs and heads in Tourte's bows were mounted with precision, allowing greater control. His methods and standards helped define the modern voirin bow still used by violinists today.

Distinctive Qualities of the Voirin Bow

The voirin French bow has several distinctive qualities that set it apart from other bows:

• Camber - The arched bend in the staff gives it more tension and bounce.
• Lightweight - Voirin bows tend to be lighter than German bows.
• Balance - The balance point is near the frog, allowing more control.
• Active flexibility - The bend and wood give these bows excellent response.
• Clear articulation - Crisp starts and stops, ideal for faster passages.
• Tone - Bright, direct, and projecting tone well-suited for solo playing.

In the right hands, a quality voirin bow seems to almost spring to life. The combination of precision, balance, and flexibility allows for exceptional articulation and control. The clear, bright tones of the voirin bow have earned it a special place in classical violin and viola repertoire.

Modern Voirin Bow Makers

While Francois Tourte set the standard, the traditions and quality craftsmanship of the French school continue today. Some of the most renowned modern makers of voirin bows include:

• Benoit Rolland - Awarded the silver medal at the International French Bow Competition. Known for excellent quality sticks.
• Charles Espey - Carried on the pedigree of the legendary WE Hill & Sons workshop.
• Timothy Paul - Trained under masters like Benoit Rolland. Specializes in octagonal sticks.
• Marcel Lahoutte - His father, Georges, revived many authentic Tourte designs and techniques.
• Yannick Le Canu - Studied violin making at the Newark School of Violin Making. Based in the US.

Locating a well-crafted voirin French bow takes patience and knowing where to look. But for professional and hobbyist violinists and violists alike, the tone and playability make it well worth the investment.

Tips for Caring for Your Voirin Bow

For violin and viola players, a quality voirin French bow is a treasured investment. Properly maintained, a good French bow can last for many decades. Here are some tips for keeping your voirin bow in top playing condition:

Store it Properly

Always loosen the hair before storing your bow. Leaving it tightened can warp the stick. Store the bow in a case or vertical holder. Never place it horizontally, as this can cause the camber to flatten over time.

Control Temperature & Humidity

Drastic fluctuations in temperature and humidity can damage the wood. Try to keep your bow at a stable relative humidity around 50-70%. Avoid excessively dry rooms that may cause cracks or wood joints to come loose.

Rehair Regularly

Over time, rosin buildup and dirt will degrade the horsehair on the bow. Have your voirin bow rehaired by a qualified luthier every year or so. Overdue rehairing affects tension, friction, and can wear down the stick.

Handle with Care

A quality voirin French bow is delicate and requires careful handling. Never overtighten the frog, which can stress the stick. When rosining, keep the bow upright. Rosin buildup near the frog can impede vibration. After playing, wipe rosin dust off the stick with a soft cloth.

Perform Checks

Inspect your bow regularly for any issues. Check for warped or bent areas on the stick. Look for cracks or separations around the frog, grip, and head. Glue coming loose can destabilize the bow. Address any problems immediately to prevent further damage.

With regular maintenance and conscientious handling, a voirin French bow can deliver decades of vibrant tone and precise response. Respecting the traditions of quality French craftsmanship will preserve your bow for the next generation of musicians.

FAQs

What is the difference between a voirin French bow and other bows?

Voirin French bows have a distinct design and playing qualities. They tend to be lightweight with a flexible cambered stick, balanced near the frog, bright and projecting tone, and excellent articulation suited for faster passages.

Who was Francois Tourte and why was he so important?

Francois Tourte (1747-1835) was a French bow maker considered the father of the modern voirin bow. His innovations with camber, pernambuco wood, balance, and precision defined the modern French bow still used today.

What is the benefit of the camber in a voirin bow?

The arched bend or camber in a French bow stick gives it more tension and bounce. This allows for quicker response and articulation, especially on faster musical passages.

How often should I rehair my voirin bow?

It's generally recommended to have your voirin French bow rehaired by a qualified luthier about once a year. This prevents rosin buildup from degrading the horsehair and maintains good tension and friction.

What is the proper way to store a voirin bow?

Always loosen the hair before storing a voirin bow. Store it vertically in a case or holder, never horizontally. Keep it in a stable environment around 50-70% relative humidity to prevent damage.