In string performance, "sul tasto" means to play where?

"Sul tasto" refers to a technique in string performance where the player produces sound by bowing over the fingerboard of the instrument rather than on the strings closer to the bridge. This playing position results in a softer, more ethereal tone, emphasizing the higher harmonics of the instrument and creating a delicate sound quality.

Playing sul tasto is often employed for expressive passages or to create a specific color in the music. This technique contrasts with "sul ponticello," where the bowing happens close to the bridge, producing a brighter, more focused sound. The nuances of where the bow is placed on the instrument significantly influence the tonal qualities produced, making the distinction between sul tasto and sul ponticello essential for conveying different musical expressions.