The Cello
other instruments: Violin, Viola, Bass
The cello (full name violoncello) is larger than the violin and viola and has a beautiful deep mellow sound. For beginners this is an advantage over the violin and viola, which can be a bit screechy to start with. Some children also find the cello easier to hold than the violin/viola, as the cello rests on the ground.
The cello can be played as a solo instrument or within an orchestra or chamber group.
I really can’t remember what it feels like not to play the cello. It is said to be the instrument which is closet in sound to the human voice, but I think it has a far more beautiful tone. I really do enjoy the expressive nature of the instrument, even the simplest piece is a real joy. [Kirsty]
lots more info on the Cello [from wikipedia]
EYS tutors for the Cello: Kirsty Hugill, Jackie Oates
Advice
Buying: Cellos are quite a bit more expensive than violins, the cheapest are around £280 compared with £70 for a cheap violin. If you are unable to afford to buy a cello EYS may be able to help; alternatively our local music shop has an interest free hire purchase scheme. Please contact Kirsty Hugill for more information.
By the way, cellos come in many sizes - 1/4, 1/8 or even 1/10th of full size. This means that children as young as three can play the cello!
Playing: at Exeter Young Strings we only teach children under 6 years after they have spent a minimum of one term in our Music Awareness classes.
At Exeter Young Strings we run small chamber groups enabling members to have fun playing with children/teens of around the same age and standard. Members who take part in groups generally make faster progress and gain more enjoyment from their playing than children who only make music in isolation.
It is essential to have individual lessons in addition to the groups. You will find that some things you find harder than another person and will need more help with or you may find other things easy. Individual lessons also mean you can chose with your teacher the style of pieces you enjoy and, if you wish, take cello exams when you are ready. You are free to progress at your own rate.
Looking after: A beginner will not know as much about the cello as a more experienced player. With this in mind, it is important to be very careful with your cello. Cellos are more expensive than violins and violas and some repair jobs are very costly. It is therefore worth insuring your instrument. If you think something is wrong with your cello, always ask your teacher. Do not attempt any repairs by yourself!
Always keep your cello in its case, loosen the bow when you are not using it and keep it at an even temperature (not next to the radiator!). Treat your cello and everything with it carefully. Ask your teacher for more information on proper maintenance.
The Cello in action
Some YouTube video clip[s] relating to the Cello:
Johann Sebastian Paetsch, Yuko Miyagawa, Laurentiu Sbarcea and Martti Rautio play the Requiem Opus 66 by David Popper for 3 cellos and piano.
Jacqueline DuPre: Elgar Cello Concerto
These videos need the Adobe Flash Player. If you cannot see a picture, then it is likely that you do not have the Player installed. To check for the Player, and get it installed, simply goto the Adobe website.
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