In Fourth and Fifth Grades, I use a teaching tool called a "Bow Tube" to help students learn proper bowing technique. 
I have made a set of classroom Bow Tubes out of PVC piping. Classroom Bow Tubes are color coded for the different instruments.
​PVC pipes can be cut with special cutters or with a saw. All the materials to make a PVC Bow Tube can be found at any home improvement store. 
Students do not need to have a PVC Bow Tube for use at home. They can make use of a recycled paper towel roll for their practice at home.
​Below you will find directions for how to make and use them. 

Violin and Viola Bow Tubes

Violin and Viola Bow Tubes are made from 1" diameter PVC pipes cut into 6" long sections. 
Students will practice bowing two ways:
  • First, with the bow tube on the shoulder
  • Second, with the bow tube hooked onto the violin or viola between the fingerboard and bridge (around the strings) using a rubber band
* Hover over or click on the pictures for a description/directions

Cello Bow Tubes

Cello Bow Tubes are made from 1.25" diameter PVC pipes cut into 6" long sections. 
Students will practice bowing two ways:
  • First, with the bow tube resting on their knees
  • Second, with the bow tube hooked onto the cello between the fingerboard and bridge (around the strings) using a rubber band
* Hover over or click on the pictures for a description/directions

Bass Bow Tubes

Bass Bow Tubes are made from 1.5" diameter PVC pipes cut into 6" long sections. 
Students will practice bowing two ways:
  • First, with the bow tube resting on the thighs while standing up
  • Second, with the bow tube hooked onto the bass between the fingerboard and bridge (around the strings) using a rubber band
* Hover over or click on the pictures for a description/directions