Berlin Strings Special Bows 1

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Unlock new textures with Special Bows 1—a dedicated collection of unconventional articulations and playing styles. From sul tasto's subtle warmth to sul ponticello's icy edge, these non-standard techniques can evoke singular moods and inspire your compositions in unexpected ways.

With 8 first violins, 6 second violins, and 5 violas—all captured in situ with multiple mics, for a vivid, realistic soundstage—Special Bows 1 can add unexpected nuance and depth to your arrangements. For even more striking results, pair it with the celli and basses of Special Bows 2. Together, they're anything but your typical string section.

Highlights:

• Sul tasto (flautando) legato.
• Sul ponticello legato.
• Flageolet (harmonics).
• Col legno.
• 8 First violins.
• 6 Second violins.
• 5 Violas.
• Multiple mic positions.
• Recorded at the Teldex Scoring Stage.

About the playing techniques

The unusual playing styles in Special Bows 1 can be used to evoke specific moods and achieve surprising expressive effects:

• Sul tasto: The player places the bow over the end of the fingerboard for a soft, warm sound.
• Sul ponticello: The player bows right next to the bridge for an eerie, icy, brittle tone, rich in harmonics.
• Flageolet: The left hand lightly touches the bowed string, producing glassy overtones.
• Col legno: The player strikes the strings with the back of the bow for a dry, percussive, sound.

New colors for your strings

Special Bows 1's extended timbral palette can be used alone, paired with Special Bows 2, or combined with Berlin Strings or Symphonic Strings to create a comprehensive, adaptable ensemble of uncommon depth.

Like all products in the Berlin Series, Special Bows 1 was recorded at Berlin's Teldex Scoring Stage with all players seated in their traditional orchestral positions. Multiple mic placements (Decca Tree, AB omni, a choice of spots, and surround) ensure a balanced, spatially coherent sound that gels beautifully with other Orchestral Tools collections.