What is the correct bow position on violin and viola?

• A. A rounded thumb holding the side of the bow with a pinky on top of the bow, other fingers comfortably holding the opposite side
• B. The bow is held with the left hand on the frog while the right hand guides the bow
• C. The pinky rests on top of the bow while the index finger points forward
• D. The bow is gripped with the entire hand wrapped around the stick

Answer: (A)

The right-hand bow grip should feel balanced and flexible, with a relaxed wrist that lets you control speed, pressure, and tone. A rounded thumb tucked under the stick provides support and counterbalances the bow, while the pinky rests on top of the stick to help gauge angle and contact. The other fingers rest comfortably on the opposite side to stabilize the bow without squeezing. This arrangement—thumb under, pinky on top, others lightly holding the opposite side—is what gives you smooth, controlled bowing for violin and viola.

Other descriptions miss or undermine this balance. Holding the bow with the left hand and letting the right guide it isn’t the standard setup. Placing the index finger in a forward position changes how you guide the bow and can reduce control. Wrapping the entire hand around the stick creates tension and limits movement, making it harder to produce a clean, relaxed tone.