What aspect of bowing does the term "sautillé" refer to?

The term "sautillé" refers specifically to a style of bowing technique that involves a bouncing motion, typically used in the middle of the bow. This effect produces a light and lively sound, often utilized in faster passages where a staccato or detached articulation is desired. The mechanics of sautilé involve allowing the bow to jump or bounce lightly on the string, which can create a particular texture or color in the music.

This technique is particularly effective for rapid note passages, as it allows for a more agile and expressive performance. The distinction of using the middle of the bow is important, as it provides the optimal leverage and control needed to achieve the bouncy effect without losing precision or clarity in the notes being played.