Does the Bow Fit: Using Anthropometry and Grip Strength to Assess Fractional-Size Violin Bows

SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: [email protected]; Web site: http://sagepub.com

Y

18

Musical Instruments; Psychomotor Skills; Children; Adults; Music Education; Measurement; Human Body; Age Differences; Physical Development; Child Development

10.1177/19484992221094814

1948-4992

This study evaluates the dimensions of fractional-size violin bows in relation to the anthropometric and grip-strength measurements of children and adults. In string education, various methods and devices have been put forward to measure children for the correct violin size, but there is a lack of research regarding the proper bow size. Results from this study indicate that fractional-size bows are manufactured with nearly identical dimensions to full-size bows, except for total length. A review of anthropometry research affirms that children's hands grow at a near constant proportion to their arms. This finding indicates the need for fractional-size bows with dimensions different from the current standard. An analysis of grip-strength research in children at various ages suggests that the weights of fractional-size bows are also not ideal. Experimental bow dimensions are proposed for further study and recommendations are made to decrease the weights of fractional-size violin bows to make them better suited for children.

As Provided

2022

EJ1342629