What is the frog in a violin bow used for?

Answer 1

The frog on the violin has had many questions on why it was called that. There has also been varied reasons from people. Some reasons found, were either related to figurative meanings and the making of the bow.

The tool used to make the frog of the bow is a vice like tool and is said to be shaped and fashioned after that.

Another theory is that the phrase 'frog' is also found when referring to horses. The bottom of horses' feet are often called frogs or 'frosh' (from where frog is derived), and the frog on the bow is located at the bottom. I.e., frog would mean bottom.

Two other reasons thought about the frog are less word orientated as to names and playing the violin. When one gives too much pressure on the frog while playing the violin, it tends to bounce and give and uneven sound to playing; resembling a frog.

The other would be derived from the man's name who invented the frog on the bow. His name is Helmut Gorf, and his last name, if spelled backwards, spells 'frog'.

Another reason given tends to be that the frog of the bow somewhat resemble the vague profile of a frog. When the bow is held upside down (especially with Viola and Cello bows which tend to have curved backs at the end) the frog piece actually looks something like a tree frog on a branch holding the horse hair in its mouth.

Answer 2

The origin of the name bow frog is unknown. The only conclusion that has been made is the similar sound of the device used to shape bows, which is a the frock.

Answer 3

Near the bottom of the bow. It's the generally black nearly square shaped object that would be right below where you place your hand when bowing.

Answer 4

The frog of a violin bow is used for playing decresendo.