Ricochet

What it is: The bow is thrown onto the string and allowed to bounce naturally — multiple notes per bow stroke, each note from a single bounce of the bow's own spring.

What it sounds like: A rapid, evenly-spaced series of light articulations with a distinctive "thrown" quality. The notes get progressively softer as the bounce loses energy.

When to use it: Rapid repeated-note figures (3–6 notes per stroke is typical), virtuoso passages, dramatic flourishes. Common in violin showpieces (Paganini, Sarasate) and in orchestral writing for extra excitement on a fast tutti note.

Tip: Ricochet length is finite. A single bow throw produces ~3–8 notes before the bounce dies out. Don't write 16 ricochet notes in one stroke and expect them all to sound. For longer rapid passages, mark spiccato or just write straight slurred articulation and let the player choose.

Notation: A slur over the notes with the indication "ricochet" or "rico." above. Some scores use dots under the slur (similar to staccato-under-slur).

Watch: Ricochet bow technique demo↗ — short visual reference.

See also: Spiccato, Staccato, Orchestration