Which term describes the technique of bowing over the end of the fingerboard for a light airy sound?

• A. Sul Ponticello
• B. Sautillé
• C. Sul Tasto
• D. Detache

Answer: (C)

Bowing over the end of the fingerboard produces a soft, airy tone because the bow is positioned far from the bridge, allowing the string to vibrate more freely with fewer bright overtones. This tonal color is described as sul tasto. It contrasts with sul ponticello, which is near the bridge and yields a brighter, more metallic sound. Detache refers to a clear, separate bow stroke rather than a change in tone color from bow placement. Sautillé is a light, bouncing bow stroke focused on articulation, not on producing an airy tone from bow position. So, the technique of bowing over the fingerboard to achieve a light, ethereal sound is sul tasto.