Things 4 Strings

History

Established in 2008.

Violin teacher Ruth Brons had often made «pinky houses» for weak or wandering pinky fingers. But in 2008 she happened to have a big roll of duct tape — and she went on a bow hold rampage, improvising supports for thumb, pinky and index fingers. Students loved their «guaranteed perfect bow holds», and Ruth was astonished at their relaxed hands. But within just a few weeks these duct tape fixes started peeling off, and students complained the supports were stiff and ugly. Although many bow holds had already improved, Ruth promised to look for a better solution.

Working with modeling compounds, Ruth came up with a two-​part, universal-​fit bow accessory. The first part positions and shapes the thumb, and separates the index and middle fingers. The second part shapes and supports the pinky and ring fingers. She researched patents and found that for over 125 years violin teachers have been trying to make holding the bow easier for stud

Meet the Business Owner

Ruth B.

Business Owner

The Things 4 Strings™ Patent Pending bow accessories were developed by a two-​generation team of pedagogues to help students in their own studios: violin/​viola teacher Ruth Brons and her mother, cello teacher Martha Brons. Between these two respected teachers there are over 75 years of teaching experience.

In recent years Ruth Brons has helped violin programs flourish at Montclair State University and the Montclair Cooperative School in New Jersey. Ruth is also an active free-​lance violist and chamber music coach in the North Jersey area.