Down bow

As Printed on a Score

Usually shown by the sign ⊓, a bracket open at the bottom, above the note; the words down bow appear in teaching editions. Consecutive down-bow signs require the player to retake the bow between notes.

Also spelled: down-bow, downbow

How Composers Use It

A down-bow starts at the frog, where the bow is heaviest, so it suits strong downbeats, accents and chords. Consecutive down-bows give a heavy, separated emphasis and need time for each retake. Mark them where you want that effect; otherwise trust the players to alternate.

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