Harmonics

What they are: Lightly touching the string at a node point instead of pressing it down, producing a pure, high overtone.

Two types: Natural harmonics — touching at simple fractional points (halfway, third, quarter) on an open string. Reliable and resonant. Artificial harmonics — one finger stops the string while another lightly touches a fourth above. Harder to play, but available at any pitch.

What they sound like: Ethereal, floating, crystalline. A completely different world from normal bowed sound. Like hearing the ghost of the note.

When to use them: Endings, high sustained textures, celestial or magical moments. Often combined with Con Sordino or sul tasto for maximum delicacy.

Tip: Natural harmonics are much more reliable in performance. Use artificial harmonics sparingly and give players time to set up.