How Long Does It Take To Make A Cello? The 68 Latest Answer

Practice makes perfect, right?

It’s actually best practices that make “perfect” (or the next best thing). When you have poor cello practice habits, you develop incorrect postures, finger positions, and other technical no-gos that make it difficult to advance as a musician and make it increasingly difficult to advance into chair positions or land a cello part in a coveted ensemble group.

Dos and Don’ts for Healthy Cello Practice Habits

As much as we encourage the “dos” of instrumental playing, learning the “don’ts” (aka “what not to do”) can also be helpful.

DO: Play a properly sized cello

It is always important for musicians to play instruments that are the correct size. This is especially true for larger stringed instruments like cello or bass. Otherwise there is a risk of injury and mastering the instrument will be more difficult.

Your teacher and/or staff at the instrument shop will help you find a cello that is the right size for your body.

DO NOT: Refrain from purchasing a spiked anchor (stop) to keep the tip from slipping on the floor/carpet and/or a spiked strap which will do the same. Other essential cello accessories include extra rosin, spare strings, a rolling case, and a mute (if you live in an apartment or want to practice indoors at quiet times).

DO: Create a personalized, efficient practice space

The space you practice in is critical to the success of your practice sessions. While all musicians will appreciate the idea of ​​an actual practice space, the corner of the room may have to suffice.

Take the time to create a personalized and efficient nook, closet, or space that allows for a clutter-free, low-distraction exercise experience. Make sure it has everything you need – from the tuner to rosin, stand and music to an ergonomically friendly seat etc. The idea behind this is that once you’re seated, until the practice session, you don’t move or your concentration need to interrupt completed.

DON’T: Exaggerate your exercise length

Perfectionists and newly minted soloists (or cellists with overzealous parents) can burn out for the sole reason that they practice too much. The subconscious is a powerful force and you will be amazed at how much “work” it does improving cello technique, hearing and muscle memory given enough time to practice everything you’ve learned.

The ideal exercise duration is between 30 and 60 minutes a day, about five days a week. Young students/beginners should practice for the 30 minute side to avoid burnout, boredom or overuse injuries.

DO: Tune your cello every time you practice

Even if band or orchestra is your last class of the day, you should tune the cello every time you play, even if you practice. In fact, many cellists retune every 15 minutes or so during rehearsals to compensate for changes that have caused strings or pegs to be out of tune during play.

Playing a tuned cello is key, among other things, to developing the ear training and muscle memory needed to play your music in unison with others. By tuning your cello each time, you can also become familiar with the sounds, marks, or feelings that indicate it’s time to change the strings.

DON’T: Rely on others, so change your strings

With this in mind: You should learn how to change the strings of a cello early on in the game. While young children may need help for a time, older children and teenagers can certainly do it themselves, although they may need supervision the first few times.

Changing strings is a regular occurrence as the strings wear out and the quality of the sound decreases as the strings age. Learning to change them yourself and do other simple repairs is a good idea – and will save you a lot of money in the long run.

DO: Warm up your fingers, arms, and wrists at the beginning of each rehearsal

All string players need to warm up to avoid injury. Cellos require a great deal of physical effort, which means stretching to warm up the muscles in your fingers, wrist, arms, shoulders, neck and back before you sit down to practice. Then stick to the scales, finger warm-ups, and other dexterity exercises suggested by your teacher.

DON’T: Ignore your body’s messages

Does your back hurt? Do you have a hot, tingly feeling between your shoulder blades or at the base of your neck? Do elbows or forearms feel uncomfortable? All of these are signs that you are:

Not playing with correct posture

need a break

Don’t use the right technique

Not warmed up enough

Practice too much

Ignoring pain or discomfort signals in your body leads to injury. Talk to your cello teacher and they will find out the cause of the pain as well as the solution.

These cello practice dos and don’ts will help you on your way to becoming an increasingly competent cellist.

SKOKIE, ILL. — SKOKIE, Illinois — Under the warm glow of an arm lamp, Ron Mielzynski runs his fingers over an unvarnished violin belly.

“Do you see that?” he says, pointing to something invisible to the untrained eye. “Bumps. It needs to be smoother.”

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He takes a hand-held metal scraper and slowly shaves fractions of a millimeter from the bare wood until the shape is a smooth arc, a process that will take hours.

Below Mielzynski’s stool, the floor is covered with curls of spruce and maple. In the twilight of the large workroom, he works constantly with 31 other students, all of whom are quietly learning the 500-year-old craft of violin making.

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“Violin making is the ultimate in detail-oriented work,” says Mielzynski, 30. “It’s not really work. It’s fun.”

The Chicago School of Violin Making, one of only a handful of such schools worldwide, has been training violin, viola and cello makers for 23 years. Students come from all over the world – Bulgaria, France, Russia, Japan – to learn from Tschu Ho Lee, director of the school and master craftsman.

Lee, 66, a native of Korea, opened the school in 1975 with Kenneth Warren of Kenneth Warren & Son Ltd. luthier and repair shop. While serving in the South Korean military orchestra during the Korean War, Lee began repairing instruments.

“I would open the instrument and try to figure it out,” says Lee, a soft-spoken man clad in a long, pinstriped smock. “It’s a wooden box, and you can make a beautiful, beautiful sound like that. It is fascinating. Why such a small box and such a big, beautiful sound?”

In a 3 1/2 year program, students at the Chicago school learn how to make these little boxes that make such beautiful sounds. They must build seven instruments before completing – six if they take on the task of building a cello.

Although the school is internationally known, few outside the field have heard of it. Even the neighbors aren’t exactly sure what’s going on in the one-story brick building across from an elevated railway repair yard.

“It’s kind of a store, isn’t it?” suspects a department employee.

Inside, on the walls in a hall, are images of what constitutes the Violin Hall of Fame: graceful bodies made by the hands of European masters of the 17th and 18th centuries, Stradivarius, Guarneri, Montagnana.

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A small photo of a Guarneri hangs over the workbench of sophomore Eric Skinner, 34, a native of North Carolina who finished his first violin body.

“I don’t quite get it,” he says. “But it was a wonderful moment to finally hold it in my hands.”

Experienced luthiers can build a violin in about 120 hours; a cello needs at least 200 hours. Acclaimed masters like Lee can charge $12,000 to $15,000 for a violin. Instruments that are factory made, or made in a workshop by more than one maker, are significantly cheaper – less than $1,000. A serious student or professional will almost always choose an instrument built by an experienced maker.

Not all of those students will become craftsmen good enough to fetch such prizes, says teacher Rebecca Elliott, 42.

After a tuition of $2,620 per semester, most students can look forward to an additional three to five years of informal training in a repair shop, working for perhaps $8 an hour. The school attracts students of all ages, from recent high school graduates to retirees, and classes fill well into the year 2000.

Students at the Chicago school learn basic repair techniques as well as building, but “one of the difficulties in this field is that after 3 1/2 years you’re still not considered a trained repairman,” says Elliott. It can take two decades for a craftsman to become qualified to work on the rarest of instruments.

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That long journey doesn’t seem to bother 19-year-old third-semester student Luke Degner from Chicago.

“It’s pretty much a dream come true,” he says. More than 30 violins stained in colors ranging from red to butterscotch dangle from hooks in the school’s paint shop. He reaches for one – his first.

“It’s not bad for a first. It’s not perfect,” he says, pointing out paint defects.

The students keep their first instrument. The school sells the others for up to $2,500 to cover operating costs.

Lee’s approach to instrument building is in the vein of the old Italian masters: students build from the inside out. They carve the six inner blocks that support the body and then shape the ribs, the thin strips of wood used for the sides. When the interior shape is complete, students begin carving the front and back panels into arcs using progressively finer tools until the panels are 3 millimeters thick.

With its dual emphasis on beauty and precision, the luthier’s profession lies somewhere between art and craft.

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“The closest thing to a human voice is the violin,” says Paul C. Becker, owner of a Chicago shop that makes and repairs fine violins. “To turn a piece of wood into something that sounds like a human voice, you better pay attention to every detail.”

The curve of the scroll at the end of the neck, the cut of the double F-holes, the line of the inlaid edge: these are all the fingerprints of a luthier.

“Even a sloppy cut sounds OK, I’m sure,” Lee says of the curvy f-holes. “But a nice line makes a musician more comfortable.”

At the beginner level, however, students mostly work from a book. “We’re technicians,” says Lee. “It’s an art, maybe later. But what we do is technical.”

Unlike other luthier schools, the Chicago school has no admissions requirements. As a result, many students, like Jessie Gilbert, have never carved a block of wood.

Gilbert, 50, a mother of three from Chicago, is a trained child therapist. She started playing the violin less than 10 years ago – “a typical mid-life crisis” – and that sparked her interest in making the instrument.

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At first she couldn’t even think about completing an instrument. “I didn’t think I’d ever be able to do it,” says Gilbert, a freshman. “You learn to love the instrument more and more over time. It’s not a hobby school, it’s very intensive.”

Other students come to the school with no musical background. But they all have to learn to play.

It is Daria Horodyskyj’s job to teach her. As a concert violinist, she gives violin lessons at the school every two weeks.

“I knew students who couldn’t play well but made beautiful violins,” she says. “They felt the soul of the instrument.” Still, she insists everyone tries.

Lee adds the lessons so students can understand what a customer wants. “I can give them the measurements, but I can’t teach them the feel of the game,” he says. “You have to know that.”

Igor Gersh knows the feeling well. A concert violist &L; A native of Eastern Russia, Gersh, 43, is a member of the Ars Viva ensemble in Chicago. He is also a student at the violin making school #F.

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“It helps me as a musician to understand the instrument,” he says, reaching for one of the three scrolls he’s carving. “I build instruments from the outside, but I feel them from the inside.”

He looks forward to playing a viola he has built himself. “I’m not expecting a Stradivarius sound, but it’s kind of exciting,” says Gersh. “You put your soul into the instrument when you build it. You feel like a creator.”

Release date: 12/21/98

From Arctic Meta,

Playing an instrument is a skill many people only dream of. To be able to pick up an instrument and through a series of actions create beautiful music to share with others is quite an impressive feat.

Most adults have attempted some form of music education while in school. Many have played an instrument in the past (or at least tried to). Maybe it was the old trusty recorder; Maybe they were in a band in high school and played chords on a guitar.

Whatever instrument was played, it definitely required a certain amount of knowledge and practice to play. In the world of instruments, there are some that are harder to learn than others. That doesn’t mean a music student should forget ever to play them; it just means they’re a little harder to learn.

So what are the most difficult musical instruments to learn? What makes them so difficult? Read on to find out more.

1st violin

The violin is a wooden stringed instrument that is part of a larger family of similar instruments. The smallest and tallest instrument in its family, it usually has four strings, although some fiddles may have five.

The first known violins were made in Italy in the 16th century and are now one of the most famous instruments in the world. The sound produced by this instrument has been found in almost every genre of music for hundreds of years.

The violin is also widely considered to be one of the most difficult instruments to learn. One of the reasons for this is that there are no guides for finger placement on the violin. With other instruments like the guitar, the player can use divisions on the instruments known as frets to help them find the right spot to place their fingers when playing a note or chord.

On the violin, the lack of frets means the player must rely on muscle memory to know exactly where to place their fingers. The difficulties don’t just end there. After a while, most people can remember finger placement, much like learning touch typing; However, in order to create a beautiful sound, there are a large number of variables.

The sound that comes from a violin isn’t just dependent on finger placement; it also depends on the pressure, the speed, the bow, the notes played previously and many other things.

Because of this, most professional violinists typically began playing around the age of four. It takes an incredibly long time to play this instrument without it sounding like someone strangling a cat.

2. The french horn

The french horn is probably not the first instrument that springs to mind when going through this list, but it’s still quite an influential piece of an orchestra. Its unique shape makes it look a bit like it could become part of a machine in a steampunk sci-fi movie, but it’s all part of what gives the French horn its rich sound.

It is a brass instrument in the same family as the trumpet or tuba. The earliest incarnations of modern brass instruments were actual animal horns, hollowed out so a player could press their lips to the smaller end and produce a big, full sound, often to warn others of danger or to celebrate good news.

The French horn is usually regarded as a very demanding instrument. Playing the French horn requires a lot of breath control, and figuring out how to position your mouth to get the right pitch can be difficult.

The finger position of this instrument is also challenging. The high notes are relatively close together, making it difficult to tell them apart. Overall, the French horn’s combination of breath control, lip position, and finger positions, along with this instrument’s odd shape, can be a confusing instrument to learn. However, it is a great tool for those who have decent lungs.

3. The organ

The organ is an artistic as well as musically appealing instrument. For most people, the sound of the organ is synonymous with church or baseball. The early versions of the organ appeared in history over 2000 years ago and the basic principles of this instrument haven’t really changed since then.

The organ works by passing compressed air through pipes. There are almost infinite variations of the organ. Organs can be large or small and have different sound abilities.

The organ may look like a piano and follow the same key structure, but that’s where the similarities end. It’s an incredibly complex musical device. In order to be able to play the organ successfully, intensive coordination of the hands, feet, eyes and ears is required.

Playing the organ can be a bit like playing a video game, but also programming the game at the same time. It takes a really long time to master the organ and sometimes that mastery can be limited to just one specific machine.

Organ playing experienced a small surge in popularity in the 70’s and 80’s thanks to companies making machines small enough to be placed in the home, but this instrument has since fallen out of favor. This is most likely why the organ player in a church is usually an elderly person.

4. Bagpipes

Almost everyone associates the bagpipes with Scottish tradition, and rightly so. It is a woodwind instrument deeply rooted in Scottish and Celtic culture since the 13th century.

The bagpipes make an odd sound that people seem to either love or hate, but they are very difficult to play.

A bagpiper must constantly supply air to the instrument while maintaining the perfect amount of pressure on the instrument’s bladder under his arm. The finger positioning of the bagpipes may look a little like the recorder, but it is much more complex and can take years to master.

5. Accordion

The accordion is another instrument that uses air pressure to create its notes and tones. When most people think of the accordion, they probably picture a busker somewhere in Paris entertaining tourists in a busy market square.

It looks like an instrument that has been around forever, but the first mentions of the accordion date back to 1829. Even watching someone play the accordion can feel like real magic.

The reason the accordion is so difficult to play is because there are many different actions to be performed at the same time. It’s a bit like playing a piano, which is also a set of bagpipes, only with more knobs and finger positions.

The accordion can also be quite heavy and tiring to play for long periods of time.

6. oboe

The oboe is a reeded woodwind instrument that gained prominence in the late 17th century. It is most often played as part of an orchestra. It is similar to a clarinet but is much larger and produces a brighter and clearer sound compared to the clarinet’s soft tones.

The oboe follows the previous pattern of difficult-to-play instruments by also requiring the player to control several things at once. It demands a lot of mouth, lips, tongue and breath, because the sound of the instrument’s tones is not only controlled by the placement of the fingers.

An oboe player must also learn to breathe through the nose while exhaling through the mouth, which is much more difficult than patting the head while rubbing the stomach. Bringing all this together still requires a lot of coordination, because for the perfect sound the right pressure must be applied by all factors.

7. Harp

The harp is a stringed instrument almost as old as recorded history. The earliest mention of the harp comes from western Asia around 3500 BC.

Harps come in many shapes and sizes, and there are several variations depending on the culture a particular harp came from. For example, a Baroque harp is quite large, while some Celtic harps can easily be placed on a person’s lap.

Unlike many of the other instruments on this list, the harp does not require the player to perform different tasks at the same time. The reason this instrument is difficult has to do with the sheer amount of strings it has. Harps can have up to 47 different strings, and they are all very close together.

Learning the exact position of each string and how to pluck it without also plucking its neighbors is a musical and physical feat.

8. Guitar

The guitar is probably one of the most popular instruments in the world. Most people would consider this instrument one of their first choices when trying to learn to play anything.

It’s an incredibly versatile instrument that’s not only pleasant to listen to but also highly portable, making it an ideal companion for a traveling musician.

The guitar is an incredibly accessible instrument for many people, and it doesn’t take long to play tunes, but it’s deceptively more difficult to play than most people realize.

It can be difficult for guitar students to make the transition from just playing individual notes to playing entire chords. It also takes considerable time to develop enough finger strength to successfully play chords. This can actually be a bit uncomfortable or even painful at first.

The way guitar music is written is very different from most other instruments. It’s basically upside down and may take some getting used to.

9. Piano

Like the guitar, the piano needs no introduction. Everyone has heard of one and seen it played. Most people have even strummed the keys to try to make some kind of music, with varying degrees of success.

It’s pretty easy to start playing the piano. It doesn’t take long to learn the basics and even master a few basic chords. It’s a great instrument for giving a student a decent understanding of music theory, and once someone can read piano music they can read music for most other instruments as well. Many multi-instrumentalists began playing the piano.

However, mastering the piano can take years or even decades. Playing professionally or at concert level requires a tremendous commitment to study and practice. There may also be restrictions that are beyond the player’s control, such as: B. the size of his hands and the length of his fingers.

10. Cello

The cello belongs to the same musical family as the violin. It’s much larger and produces a deeper, much more atmospheric sound. It’s basically a violin the size of a human. Because of its resemblance to the violin, it has a similar level of difficulty to play.

Like the violin, the cello has no frets to tell the player where to place their fingers for notes. It also has a whole host of other challenges. The position of a cello is incredibly important when playing it, as is the position of the bow and the pressure of the fingers.

Cello strings are much larger than violin strings, so this instrument can be particularly challenging for little fingers.

11. Clarinet

As previously mentioned, the clarinet is a woodwind instrument in the same musical family as the oboe. The clarinet is a little more versatile than its larger siblings, but it can be just as difficult to play.

It is a reed instrument, meaning it uses a wooden reed through which the player must force air at the right pressure to produce sound. Generating the right amount of pressure can be a difficult task.

One of the most difficult things about the clarinet is that there isn’t much of a difference between a pleasant sound and something that sounds like SpongeBob SquarePants playing Squidward. The smallest mistake is very obvious and for this reason it takes many years to master the clarinet.

Conclusion

The instruments on this list are known for being difficult to learn, but that doesn’t mean they’re impossible. Any form of music education has incredible benefits, especially for children. It is also possible to give children experiences with different instruments without the need for expensive purchases or tuition.

Visit the Mussila Music School. Mussila is an award-winning EdTech application that provides children with a complete music education in a fun and engaging way. Mussila uniquely uses the art of play to engage children as they learn music theory, composition and even how to play an instrument.

With Mussila, children don’t need adult supervision or even access to an instrument; everything can be done from a tablet. All they need is an internet connection and maybe a pair of headphones.

So check out the Mussila app on the App Store today or follow Mussila on social media to stay up-to-date with the latest news and innovations, including Mussila’s latest project WordPlay – an app that uses gamification to empower children helps to learn to read.

Deciding whether to play the violin or the cello can be difficult, but this article will help you consider the pros and cons of both.

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The violin and cello are two of the most well-known and studied instruments in the string family. Each of them is central to the makeup of the orchestra we know today. By familiarizing yourself with the pros and cons of these two instruments, you can decide whether the violin or cello is a better fit for you.

Is it easier to play the violin or the cello?

When you’re trying to decide whether to play the cello or the violin, you might be wondering if violin or cello is easier? The answer isn’t always straightforward, but here are some key points to keep in mind:

Cellists need to learn three clefs instead of just one so they can reach more notes

The violin has a sound and range that more closely resembles the sound of a human voice, which some people find more relatable

Violins are cheaper to buy than cellos (good for beginners on a budget or when trying to decide between cello or violin for child learners)

Positioning the violin can be a challenge, both under the chin and in terms of finger placement

The violin is more convenient to carry due to its size

It used to be harder to find cello lessons than violin lessons, but that’s no longer the case – now you can easily find violin and cello lessons online so you can learn anywhere!

Considering these various pros and cons, it is best to make the decision for yourself. No two instruments will be as difficult for any individual to learn as another. Learning music on the violin is easy for some, while learning the cello is much easier for others.

If you can, go to your local music store and try both instruments!

Violin or Cello – That’s how you decide

Which is better – violin or cello? There is no real answer to this question as each instrument has its own bearing. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide whether to buy a cello or a violin.

Advantages and disadvantages of the violin

The most frequently mentioned advantage of the violin is that it is practical. The violin is (on average) significantly cheaper than the cello. It’s also smaller and more portable. In addition, many people appreciate the violin’s range and tone, which is similar to that of the human voice.

With the instrument having been popular for around 400 years, there is no shortage of repertoire to challenge both budding and experienced violinists. Within orchestras, the seats for violinists also tend to be the most numerous, so violinists have an advantage in this sense (especially over winds, brass, and percussion).

But compared to other string players, the violin can also be more competitive because so many people play it. Earning a spot in the second fiddle section may not be all that difficult, but earning a spot in the upper echelons can be harder.

Violins also have very specific ways of holding them. You hold the violin on your left shoulder (if you’re right-handed) with the strings pointing to the top and the bow in your right hand. For left-handers, it’s the opposite. This position doesn’t leave much room for negotiation – but with the cello, you can try several different positions, sitting or standing, to make it more comfortable for you.

Pros and cons of the cello

The cello is often cited for its practical disadvantages – mainly its size and price. But for students who enjoy the sound of the cello more, it’s worth lugging around a larger and more expensive instrument.

The lower range and tonality of the cello resonates far more with many musicians than the higher range of the violin.

Both the violin and the cello have a unique range and repertoire that attract different people. While the violin repertoire is probably more extensive, the cello also has a well-established and varied repertoire, including major solo works.

Fewer students learn cello than violin, so cellists tend to be more in demand than violinists. This tends to be true even when one considers the typically smaller number of cellists required to form an orchestra or chamber ensemble.

Which is harder to play: violin or cello?

Many students wonder which instrument is more difficult: the violin or the cello? People who have tried both instruments tend to say that the cello is less difficult because of its more natural position. The position of the violin can feel awkward at first, but advanced violinists insist it will become natural over time.

It’s important to master, however, as bowing technique can affect not only how comfortable you are while playing, but also your tone. Here is a video that demonstrates this principle quite well:

Many experienced musicians say that both instruments have their own difficulties. For example, although a cellist’s playing position is easier to learn, the thumb position on the cello is difficult for many students. Advanced cellists also need to learn three clefs instead of just one.

SEE ALSO: How easy is it to switch instruments? [Infographic]

Is cello or violin better?

Should I learn cello or violin? It’s a tough call.

Music students and their families can do a number of things to help them with their decision.

First, consider what opportunities are available at school or in the community. Keep long-term goals in mind.

Make sure the student is exposed to both instruments. This can be videos, CDs or local concerts. Local colleges and conservatories often give concerts to the general public and many play the violin and cello. Local symphonists also hold free concerts in the park.

To make sure you’re making the right choice, it’s always a good idea to try each instrument and take a few lessons. Check out this directory of violin teachers and this directory of cello teachers. Classes are available both in person and online across the country.

Listen to simple orchestral music and try to distinguish the different sounds of the violin and cello. This gives you a sense of what each instrument contributes to an AC composition and lets you decide which one you prefer.

Go to a music store so you can feel both instruments – consider the size, weight and how your body feels holding the instrument.

Above all, the student should love the sound of the instrument he chooses, be it the higher and happier violin or the deeper and richer cello.

What do you think about whether the violin or the cello is the better instrument? Let us know in the comments below!

Are you ever surprised at the difference between the mundane appearance of a rare artifact and its contrasting exorbitant price? These luxury items tend to be exclusive and handcrafted from rare materials, possibly in limited quantities. Usually these items are relatively useless and are mainly for show, but occasionally these extremely high quality products are the necessary tools of a trade. For example, professional photographers use cameras worth thousands of dollars, as well as many lenses worth thousands more, to do what they do. Professional cyclists spend thousands of dollars on a competitive bike. Professional politicians spend significant portions of their savings on their campaigns. In the same way, cellists end up spending more than they’d like on their instruments.

That’s the situation cellists like me find themselves in. I don’t regret choosing the cello, but it’s definitely the most expensive hobby I’ve ever pursued. Hopefully that’s understandable, because many instruments are expensive and instruments are generally not impulse buys. However, cellos are among the most expensive of all orchestral instruments.

Estimate and write down how much you think a student cello or a professional cello should cost. Write those values ​​down and I’ll let you know if you were right at the end of this post. In the meantime, let me explain the remarkable construction of a cello that leads to its unique sound and price.

Cellos are handmade and take several months to make. This alone speaks volumes about how much labor it takes for a cello to exist. However, labor is only part of the cost. Cellos have some pretty special parts made from relatively rare materials. The pegs, nut, fingerboard, and tailpiece are all made from ebony, an incredibly hard and dense wood that’s also quite rare. The main body of the cello is primarily maple but with a pine front, all hand carved and/or bent.

The strings of a cello are made of similar unique materials. In the Baroque music era, most cello strings were made from dried sheep/goat intestines. Today they are mostly made with a steel or plastic core. However, around this core is wound a coil of tungsten, steel, aluminum or silver, which itself can be plated with chrome or gold to achieve the desired tonal effect. These rarer metals predictably make a set of strings run into the hundreds of dollars, which I’m often reminded of as strings need to be replaced about every year with regular use, and far more frequently for pros.

But wait, there’s more! The cello is a stringed instrument, and the bow itself has many unique parts. The main body of the bow, the stick, is made of pernambuco wood, also known as brazilwood. Unfortunately, the pernambuco tree is officially an endangered species as its international export is now illegal, so bow makers now sometimes use alternative materials such as carbon fiber. The hair of a bow is bleached horsehair from the horse’s tail, and the handle is leather or snakeskin. The frog can be made of ivory or ebony inlaid with mother of pearl. The tip of the bow (not visible) is also traditionally made of ivory.

To protect these valuable instruments, musicians need a protective case. However, the cello is quite cumbersome and requires not only a strong case but also a light one for a person to carry to and from gigs, rehearsals and performances. Most cello cases are made of fiberglass and/or carbon fiber. This also adds to the cost of owning a cello.

Now for the moment of truth. Based on the above factors, a student-grade cello would cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 and a professional-grade cello would range from $10,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars. How does that compare to your first impression?

What’s the point of spending so much money on a cello? Is there an alternative? Well, the point behind all that money is that there are some things that you just need as a professional musician. Many alternatives are few and far between today as the art of instrument making is so detailed and traditional that modern technology is difficult to apply to the process.

The point of this article is not to discourage you from learning a new instrument or to complain, but to make you more aware of something that I think needs more attention. From now on, you won’t be like my roommate’s classmate, who valued Yo Yo Ma’s cello at “about two hundred dollars.”

Edit: I found a website that has completed an entire study on the costs associated with owning a stringed instrument, check it out!

Good bridge builders always store their wood, but we are happy to store our bridges for at least another five years. Like most luthiers, we heat treat bridges before use to relieve internal stresses in the wood and give the bridge more stability over its lifetime.

We use premium maple bridge blanks, made to our own design by the finest French manufacture. They source their maple from the same region as the wood we use for the backs, sides and scrolls of our cellos, but they choose plain maple without any figure or curl.

A good start in life. In order for a bridge to remain in good condition and to efficiently transfer the player’s energy to the cello’s body, it must stand upright. The best luthiers are fanatical about their choice of wood for bridges. We pay attention to a combination of fineness and uniformity of growth: the narrower the growth lines (rings) and the straighter the medullary rays (vertical structures) in the wood of the bridge blank, the stronger and more stable the bridge will be. Excellent bridge wood also offers the violin maker more freedom when designing the bridge in detail.

Get the best out of your cello bridge. A good bridge can last indefinitely, but it requires constant care and attention from the player to stay in optimal condition. When caring for cello bridges, three points need to be considered: warping the bridge head, spreading the legs and cutting the strings into the string grooves.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE GUIDE

1. Lubricate the string grooves. Each string groove in the bridge and ebony nut should be well lubricated by rubbing a bar of dry soap (see below) over the empty string groove until it is full of soap fragments. The presence of the soap allows the string to glide over the bridge and saddle much more smoothly, with far less friction.

If you want to lubricate your string grooves but don’t change strings, tune each string down a major third, lift the string briefly out of the string groove while rubbing the groove with soap, then reinstall the string, tune Get them higher and straighten the bridge. Many cellists like to use graphite (pencil lead) to lubricate their string grooves, which is an equally effective method, but we prefer using dry soap as it’s quicker and cleaner.

How to prepare dry soap. The best soap you can use is of a basic quality, such as B. a small tablet with hard and crumbly hotel soap. Beautiful soaps with skin-friendly oils are too soft for our purpose. If you don’t have a bar of old hotel soap, cut a 1cm slice from a bar of base soap and set it in a warm, dry place for a few months until the soap dries and shrivels. If you scrape the surface, small flakes should come off like snow. You can keep a small piece of soap like this safely in your cello case and use it for your string grooves in the bridge and in the nut at the top of the fretboard – whenever you change the string.

2. Regularly straighten your bridge to keep it from warping. Even if you use dry soap to lubricate your string grooves, there will be some friction between the bridge and the string every time a new string is mounted or tuned. This friction slightly pulls the bridge toward the pegs or tailpiece, depending on whether you are tuning with the pegs or fine tuners. It’s important to note that fine tuners pull the bridge six times harder than vortices because they are in such close proximity to the bridge. If you use fine tuners regularly, you need to keep a close eye on the bridge and adjust its posture away from the tailpiece. It’s worth tuning the pegs whenever possible to counteract the effect of the fine tuners, but every time you put on a new string you should assume that the bridge has been pulled towards the peg box and needs to be straightened. To ensure the bridge stays upright and in good condition throughout its life, we recommend checking the posture of your bridge at least once a week. If your bridge is already warped, don’t despair: good luthiers can straighten moderately warped bridges (there are a variety of techniques).

Despite the common misconception that the Belgian bridge is a modern innovation, it has been in use for many years and is a direct descendant of the bridge model in widespread use in England during the heyday of English cello making in the 1800s. There are many examples of this bridge model from the 1800’s, now usually referred to as the “Forster” bridge, but also used in other fine workshops such as Betts, Hart, Fendt and Panormo. It is therefore likely that most English cellos made between 1800 and 1840 began with the equivalent of a Belgian bridge, which could have given English cellos a brighter and more open sound than the French bridge design that was fashionable in the 20th century came.

Another common misconception is that Belgian bridges put more tension on an instrument than French bridges. Belgian bridges can appear larger than their French counterparts due to their different proportions and longer legs, but in fact choosing a Belgian versus a French bridge does not affect the string spacing, string spacing, bow curve, or string tension on the cello.

A good cello bridge is made from plain maple with an extremely fine growth and a very strong cell structure. We believe that the fitment of a cello should be treated with the utmost respect and changes should only be made when it is clear that the original bridge and support are not working well. When an old bridge needs to be replaced, we follow as closely as possible the elegant, organic models passed down to us by craftsmen of the past. Our bridges are cut from a reliable and consistent wood stock and we only produce top quality cello bridges so each work adds to our working knowledge of tone control.

The design of a bridge should be a natural complement to the cello. A French bridge is often a good choice for light cellos where added depth and interest in the sound is desired. In contrast, cellos with an inherently dark sound often benefit from the installation of a Belgian bridge, which emphasizes the cello’s upper register and can also be used to make gut G and C strings sound clearer and cleaner. Depending on how they are designed and cut, it is entirely possible that there is tonal overlap between Belgian and French bridges, and indeed many cellos could have very satisfactory settings with either bridge model. The Belgian bridge we use is a particularly moderate design and is made from a custom bridge blank designed by Robin and is not available as a standard product from bridge manufacturers.

When evaluating a cello, we focus on the existing setup and try to understand the player’s tonal ideal. If the current bridge has clear flaws, we will review our portfolio of bridge designs and decide which model comes closest to the player’s ideal sound. We then tailor the design of this model to the individual instrument and player, cutting the bridge to affect darkness and lightness, resistance and flexibility.

As with any other vibrating part of a cello, the bridge will get better with age provided it is well cared for. When assembling a bridge, we always make a special wooden gauge to fit between the end of the fretboard and the bridge. This gauge is a useful tool for checking bridge straightness and, with regular use, will help maintain the cello’s tone control and prevent bridge warping.

The choice of bridge design also affects the feel of an instrument under the bow. A French bridge offers a player more bowing resistance and a Belgian bridge less. Changing from one bridge design to another requires some adjustment on the part of the player, especially for cellists who have spent many years playing on a bridge model. However, appropriately changing the bridge design can be a very fulfilling and/or liberating experience for the player.

“Commonly referred to as ‘The King’, this is the oldest known cello still in existence. Nobody knows exactly when it was made, but we believe it was made around the mid-16th century by the master craftsman Andrea Amati (c . . 1505-1577) in Cremona, Italy Sometime between 1560-1574 it was painted and gilded with the coat of arms and motto of the young King Charles IX of France (1550-1574), son of Catherine de’ Medici ( 1519-1589). The cello remained in the monarchy until the French Revolution. Everything changed in 1801.”

How much does it cost to buy/rent a cello in 2022?

The price range for cellos is quite extensive, as many factors influence the price. Some of the key factors are the quality of the instrument, the quality of the materials used, the age of the instrument, where the instrument was made and your current skill level.

How much does a cello cost?

Some basic price ranges range from $300 to $2,500 for beginner cellos. A mid-range cello ranges in price from $2,500 to $10,000, and anything over $10,000 falls into the high-end, professional instrument category.

Buying vs. renting cellos

Your ambitions play a big role in whether you decide to buy a new instrument or rent an instrument. If you want to play the cello as a hobby and aren’t sure how much money to invest at first, renting it is a much better option than buying one of the very cheap outfits. While tempting, these instruments are not generally known for their superior quality.

A much better option would be to wait a while and later buy an instrument that costs over $1,000. Such an instrument offers you a much better sound quality and also allows for an easier potential sale in the future, unlike cello outfits which often require a larger investment than the purchase price after a period of use.

If you have been playing the cello for some time and plan to continue playing in the future, whether as a hobby player or through further education, purchasing an instrument is a good option. Having your own instrument and creating a special connection with the instrument is a wonderful thing and one of the charms of playing.

Most luthiers who rent instruments offer the option of a reduced price of the instrument after a period of rental, while sometimes it will be possible to even redeem the instrument in full through the option of renting an instrument after a period of time. This gives you a chance to learn about the instrument and decide if it’s right for you.

rent a cello

Linda West Cellos

This is the place to buy or rent quality instruments if you live within 60 miles of Santa Barbara. In addition to cellos, you can also rent violins and violas here. Standard cello rental is $45 per month and includes bow, cello case and rosin. This price includes insurance in case something happens to the instrument during use.

It is best to make an appointment in the shop, where the specialist staff will help you to choose the right size instrument. Here they can also give you the basic rules for the care of the instrument and bow.

Premium Cello Rentals are a great option if you are interested in renting higher quality cellos. They typically cost around $75 per month. For this option, you should first check availability. Another great option is credit accumulation – 70% of the rental fee is accrued towards the eventual purchase.

Antonio Strad violin

Here you can rent an Antonio Strad handmade cello, starting at $69 per month. These instruments are constructed from well-aged spruce and maple with a hand-carved French Aubert bridge. They are located in San Antonio but they have free nationwide shipping of the instruments.

Renting from Antonio Strad is a great option. They allow you to build up credit towards the purchase of your instrument. This program also offers a great way to resize at any time.

StringWorks

StringWorks is another company that offers flat-rate nationwide shipping. The contract has no minimum rental period, and you can even get a discount if you pay a few months in advance. There is an optional maintenance fee of $5 per month and their instruments are guaranteed for life against damage due to defects in workmanship or materials.

StringWorks Crescendo cellos are rented at $34/month for smaller cellos, $45/month for used 4/4 cellos, and $60/month for new cello rentals. You can use 2/3 of all rental fees paid in a year to buy an instrument. StringWorks also offers bespoke packages upon request and with guidance from school orchestra teachers.

Shop for baroque violins

Based in Cincinnati but renting in all 50 states, Baroque Violin Shop has one of the largest string instrument rental programs. What they offer is a rental loan that can be used for up to 50% of the cost of a new instrument (roughly three years rental).

Cello rental is $35/month. If you choose an annual subscription, you get two months free. Available instruments are the Academy 200 Series, which retails for $1600 and $2800.

In addition to the rental set (instrument, bow and case), you will receive a free starter package with rosin, music stand, textbook, polishing cloth, music folder and sound post for cello.

violin shop

They focus on renting instruments to customers in South Florida. Cellos start at $45 per month, and that’s Fiddlershop’s standard cello outfit, but there are a few more options. You might want to consider the $55/month Fiddlershop Student Cello Outfit, the $65/month Fiddlershop Advancing Cello Outfit, or the $89/month Fiddlershop Master Cello Outfit.

Within this price range everyone can find the right fit and if you need more information you can email them or visit their showroom.

Final Thoughts

Renting a cello has many advantages, e.g. B. Trying out an instrument and a much easier exchange for a bigger or better instrument, a rental loan that makes it a little cheaper to buy. You also get peace of mind from possible damage and help that only a luthier renting a cello can provide. However, if you are a veteran and think you play at a high level, renting may not be as profitable as buying your instrument.

Since there is a significant cost associated with buying a new instrument, it is best to patiently research and consider all options. Be sure to contact someone with more knowledge and experience. Having a mentor can really help you make the best decision.

Are you new to the cello world? If so, you may be curious as to how much practice time it takes to see improvement. Maybe you are a grown beginner and need a strategy. If yes, then you can find it here.

As a teacher, I often get the practice question. Before I answer that, let me give you a little perspective. Yesterday I was working on a new piece of music – it’s one I’ve wanted to play for a long time. I was curious to see how long it would take to unravel this complex work, hoping to record it for my YouTube channel. But there were a few tricky sections to iron and I didn’t have much patience.

The next thing I knew I was deep into superficial “play through” practice mode. Like all bad habits that lie just beneath the surface, I dragged myself along and didn’t really work my way through the music like I was supposed to. After about 20 minutes of practice with NOTHING improving, I changed my mind and practiced as I had painstakingly taught myself over the past decade. Which brings us back to the original question, “How much time should I practice cello?” (So you see, even seasoned professionals struggle with all the practice issues.)

As with most things in life, it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. I firmly believe that 30 minutes of very focused practice can lead to a much higher quality game than 3 (or 4 or 5…) hours of superficial “play through” practice. The first type of practice focuses on having a deep awareness of each note as you play. The second type of practice tends to allow mistakes to become lodged deep in the brain. This is exactly the type of exercise to AVOID.

I have spoken to friends and colleagues a number of times about truly focused or “Zen” practice because it fascinates me so much. And no, I’m not a zen master or anything. I am simply fascinated by this effective exercise technique. (I will write a future blog post about the Zen practice technique.)

We practice because we want to improve. We want to learn the piece of music better and we want to become better cellists. The 10,000 hour rule won’t magically turn you into a skilled cellist. But the good news is that with the RIGHT practice method, you can reach an expert level in MUCH less than 10,000 hours. 10,000 hours of bad practice leads to bad cello playing. 10,000 hours of FOCUSED play makes a master.

When you’re just starting to learn cello, everything will feel awkward. The fingertips of your left hand will feel sore and you won’t be able to put in much practice time until you get comfortable with the cello and until your left hand fingertips get some good calluses. But at least a little practice every day will go a long way. If you can only focus for 15 minutes for the first few days or weeks, that’s fine. Once you get into a practice groove, if your goal is to really learn how to play the cello, you should aim for at least 30-minute sessions of really focused practice every day.

* For more information on practicing, see this video from NPR https://www.npr.org/sections/deceptivecadence/2017/03/06/518777865/the-most-practical-tips-for-practicing-according-to-science

or this thoughtful article from Strings Magazine: https://stringsmagazine.com/tips-for-thoughtful-practicing/

or this one with YoYo Ma and Paul Katz: https://www.cellobello.org/cello-lessons/performance/yo-yo-ma-interview-practicing/

More info on learning to play the cello here: https://cellodiscovery.com

To sum it up, it’s not the amount of practice time that matters most. It’s the amount of focused, careful practice that matters most. This type of exercise will take you to the next level.

Posted on Jul 7, 2008 – 8:05 pm

QUOTE(maya3 @ Jul 7, 2008 8:30pm)

Ffliwt, do you think it’s possible to go from 6th to 8th grade in 2 semesters?

Possibly because I had students do it, or more likely was forced to do it by their parents, but it’s not recommended unless you’re one of those people who only ever played exam pieces by the time you hit 8th grade. ffliwt, what range of repertoire did you learn in your short violin time, or will you only reach an 8th grade with exam pieces? Truly competent violinists with a full compliment of developed bowing techniques and a sure left hand are not created by this method no matter how much practice they put in, and why were/are you in such a hurry to reach 8th grade as well? ?As far as quality goes, all instruments have Grade 8 and then there’s GRADE 8. I know which one I’d rather be…

Many aspiring musicians ask themselves, “Is the cello hard to learn?” The process of learning the cello is not difficult, but it is important to remember that the cello is not an instant gratification instrument. It requires focused, daily practice time and a good teacher to guide you along the way.

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How far you get with the cello is a direct result of the time you invest in practicing the instrument. Even someone who only works out for 30 minutes a day, regardless of age, will see a significant improvement after a few weeks.

A student who continues to take cello lessons and practices beyond their freshman year has the potential to develop into a talented amateur, and a young student with the right dedication could continue their studies all the way to a rewarding professional career.

How long does it take to learn cello?

It takes most beginners about two to five years to learn the cello. This can vary depending on a variety of factors.

For example, how much time do you have to spend practicing? Do you have experience using other types of instruments? Would you like to play the cello fluently or just understand the basics?

Is cello difficult to learn? It can be, but it will be easier if you invest the time.

Here are a few general tips for learning to play the cello:

Choose a cello that is the right size for your body

Don’t panic if you’re having trouble with certain sounds, at least initially

Learn how to tune your cello

Buy an anchor (or rockstop) when you start learning cello

Properly rosin your bow

Make sure you warm up properly before playing

Practice scales and strings regularly

The most important tip? Get inspired – and keep things fresh with new music and material. Consider taking cello lessons whenever possible so you have someone to keep an eye on you. Instructional videos like this one can also be helpful:

Is cello difficult to learn?

How difficult is it to learn cello? The answer is… it depends! Cello difficulty depends on whether you are teaching yourself, your level of experience with the instrument, and a variety of other factors.

When you learn how to play the cello, you are presented with very little of the instrument. Keyboard and fretted instruments (like piano and guitar) are a little easier to learn the basics. Just place your finger on the right key or fret to create the note you want to hear.

With the cello, you need a teacher to guide you through the early stages to ensure you learn in a healthy way. This will result in you enjoying the instrument for a lifetime. If you have the right teacher, anyone can learn the basics of playing the cello.

As with most instruments, the cello will be easier for someone experienced in reading music and rhythms. Most cello music is written down rather than being transmitted aurally from teacher to student. But with a little patience, students of all ages can learn the language of music with no prior knowledge or exposure.

Am I too old to learn cello?

Is it hard to learn cello when you don’t have young age on your side? Not necessarily! While it’s usually easier to pick up a new skill, be it a new language or a new instrument, cello difficulty at a young age is not something dictated by age but by commitment.

If you take the time to learn the cello, you’ll find that it doesn’t matter how old or young you are.

Young students make great beginner cellists. With youth often comes an unrestrained enthusiasm to learn a cool new instrument and a mental resiliency that helps them absorb new information like a sponge.

These advantages can take a student far. The excitement encourages them to practice more on their own, and their ability to retain information helps them progress quickly in their studies.

One difficulty that young students face, however, is the challenge of critically analyzing their play. As a result, they need an outside observer to help them identify things that cause them problems, be it posture, intonation, tone quality, etc. Young learners are also generally less coordinated than their adult peers and remain so well after puberty.

Adult beginners have their own advantages. First, they have better control over their body, which helps them make changes in technique and posture more quickly. They also have a strong ability to critically analyze their own actions and a better sense of how they want to sound.

Because of their ability to critically analyze their own game, adult learners can sometimes skip straight to the critical part. This can lead to discouragement if they don’t sound the way they want right away. However, the student is likely to be playing at a level appropriate to their learning time.

Practice creates masters

Practicing between lessons is another necessity that makes learning the cello that much easier. Without daily practice times, you will find your teacher going through the same concepts week after week during your classes. Make a commitment to find a little time each day to practice playing the cello, and you will set yourself up for success.

If you only have five minutes, strum some open strings for sound quality. Do you have a little more time? Add some scale practice. If you have more time, pick out the challenging sections of your latest solo piece. There’s always something to practice, but with the time you have, focus on the most important concepts.

Is cello harder than guitar?

If you are a beginner, you may be wondering if this instrument is more difficult to master than others, such as the guitar, violin, or piano.

As with many of the other topics we’ve touched on in this post, the answer is – it depends.

However, most people agree that the cello is more difficult than the guitar. It requires very specific postures, moods and techniques. The guitar is easier to set up and doesn’t require the same fixed posture as the cello. It’s also a fret instrument, which makes it easier to master.

Is cello heavier than piano? Again, it depends on how you define “difficult”. Much of the cello’s difficulty stems from the fact that bowing is difficult and there are no fixed keys to determine pitch. With the piano, that’s no longer a problem – but you have other problems to contend with. For example, you now have to play separate melodies with both hands, which requires a different level of thinking and technique.

And finally, which is harder to learn – violin or cello? This is a throw. The violin is just as difficult as the cello because it takes a lot of practice to get your fingers in exactly the right place every time. Learning how to get the right tone can also be difficult – while anyone can hold a finger in place and draw a bow across a string, it’s difficult to get it perfect.

The same goes for playing the cello. You need to practice your finger positions and postures to hit the right note every time.

Can you teach yourself cello?

There are many famous cello players who have taught themselves the ins and outs of this instrument – however, it is generally recommended that you hire a teacher if you wish to learn cello.

Cello is one of the most difficult instruments to learn as it requires some dedication. This is not an instrument that will give you instant gratification like percussion.

You can teach yourself cello, but it takes a lot of practice and time. Watching videos of lessons and players, studying sheet music and just putting in the time is key to success when teaching yourself this instrument.

Is it worth learning the cello?

Is cello easy to learn? Definitely not – but is it worth it? Absolutely. The cello is a beautiful instrument that is definitely worth playing.

You no longer have to wonder if the cello is difficult to learn. With a teacher to guide your technique, regular practice times, and a willingness to learn, you too can become an excellent cellist.

You don’t have to worry about twisting your left arm into an awkward position like a violinist, or using just your lungs to force air through hoses several feet long like a brass player. Instead, enjoy the comfort of the relaxed sitting position for the cello.

Is cello difficult to learn? It may be. Overall, however, the cello is an incredible instrument with a wonderful depth of sound and a wide repertoire. To get started now, sign up right here at TakeLessons for your first cello lesson with one of our many talented teachers.

Deciding whether to play the violin or the cello can be difficult, but this article will help you consider the pros and cons of both.

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The violin and cello are two of the most well-known and studied instruments in the string family. Each of them is central to the makeup of the orchestra we know today. By familiarizing yourself with the pros and cons of these two instruments, you can decide whether the violin or cello is a better fit for you.

Is it easier to play the violin or the cello?

When you’re trying to decide whether to play the cello or the violin, you might be wondering if violin or cello is easier? The answer isn’t always straightforward, but here are some key points to keep in mind:

Cellists need to learn three clefs instead of just one so they can reach more notes

The violin has a sound and range that more closely resembles the sound of a human voice, which some people find more relatable

Violins are cheaper to buy than cellos (good for beginners on a budget or when trying to decide between cello or violin for child learners)

Positioning the violin can be a challenge, both under the chin and in terms of finger placement

The violin is more convenient to carry due to its size

It used to be harder to find cello lessons than violin lessons, but that’s no longer the case – now you can easily find violin and cello lessons online so you can learn anywhere!

Considering these various pros and cons, it is best to make the decision for yourself. No two instruments will be as difficult for any individual to learn as another. Learning music on the violin is easy for some, while learning the cello is much easier for others.

If you can, go to your local music store and try both instruments!

Violin or Cello – That’s how you decide

Which is better – violin or cello? There is no real answer to this question as each instrument has its own bearing. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide whether to buy a cello or a violin.

Advantages and disadvantages of the violin

The most frequently mentioned advantage of the violin is that it is practical. The violin is (on average) significantly cheaper than the cello. It’s also smaller and more portable. In addition, many people appreciate the violin’s range and tone, which is similar to that of the human voice.

With the instrument having been popular for around 400 years, there is no shortage of repertoire to challenge both budding and experienced violinists. Within orchestras, the seats for violinists also tend to be the most numerous, so violinists have an advantage in this sense (especially over winds, brass, and percussion).

But compared to other string players, the violin can also be more competitive because so many people play it. Earning a spot in the second fiddle section may not be all that difficult, but earning a spot in the upper echelons can be harder.

Violins also have very specific ways of holding them. You hold the violin on your left shoulder (if you’re right-handed) with the strings pointing to the top and the bow in your right hand. For left-handers, it’s the opposite. This position doesn’t leave much room for negotiation – but with the cello, you can try several different positions, sitting or standing, to make it more comfortable for you.

Pros and cons of the cello

The cello is often cited for its practical disadvantages – mainly its size and price. But for students who enjoy the sound of the cello more, it’s worth lugging around a larger and more expensive instrument.

The lower range and tonality of the cello resonates far more with many musicians than the higher range of the violin.

Both the violin and the cello have a unique range and repertoire that attract different people. While the violin repertoire is probably more extensive, the cello also has a well-established and varied repertoire, including major solo works.

Fewer students learn cello than violin, so cellists tend to be more in demand than violinists. This tends to be true even when one considers the typically smaller number of cellists required to form an orchestra or chamber ensemble.

Which is harder to play: violin or cello?

Many students wonder which instrument is more difficult: the violin or the cello? People who have tried both instruments tend to say that the cello is less difficult because of its more natural position. The position of the violin can feel awkward at first, but advanced violinists insist it will become natural over time.

It’s important to master, however, as bowing technique can affect not only how comfortable you are while playing, but also your tone. Here is a video that demonstrates this principle quite well:

Many experienced musicians say that both instruments have their own difficulties. For example, although a cellist’s playing position is easier to learn, the thumb position on the cello is difficult for many students. Advanced cellists also need to learn three clefs instead of just one.

SEE ALSO: How easy is it to switch instruments? [Infographic]

Is cello or violin better?

Should I learn cello or violin? It’s a tough call.

Music students and their families can do a number of things to help them with their decision.

First, consider what opportunities are available at school or in the community. Keep long-term goals in mind.

Make sure the student is exposed to both instruments. This can be videos, CDs or local concerts. Local colleges and conservatories often give concerts to the general public and many play the violin and cello. Local symphonists also hold free concerts in the park.

To make sure you’re making the right choice, it’s always a good idea to try each instrument and take a few lessons. Check out this directory of violin teachers and this directory of cello teachers. Classes are available both in person and online across the country.

Listen to simple orchestral music and try to distinguish the different sounds of the violin and cello. This gives you a sense of what each instrument contributes to an AC composition and lets you decide which one you prefer.

Go to a music store so you can feel both instruments – consider the size, weight and how your body feels holding the instrument.

Above all, the student should love the sound of the instrument he chooses, be it the higher and happier violin or the deeper and richer cello.

What do you think about whether the violin or the cello is the better instrument? Let us know in the comments below!