How does the elbow and arm typically behave while handling the bow on cello and bass?

When handling the bow on the cello and bass, the typical movement of the elbow and arm involves a significant lowering as the player draws the bow across the strings. This is essential to ensure proper technique and sound production. The action of lowering the elbow helps to maintain an optimal angle for the bowing arm, allowing for a more fluid and controlled stroke.

Additionally, this lowering motion can enable the player to engage different dynamics and produce various tonal qualities across the strings. By allowing the elbow to drop, the arm can facilitate a more natural rotation and movement, making it easier to reach different strings without straining.

The significance of the arm's movement in this context is crucial for achieving a rich sound and enhancing the performance quality. Proper bowing technique, which includes this lowering motion, is foundational for cellists and bassists in executing musical passages effectively.