Cello Facts
20 Interesting Facts About The Cello
The Cello is regarded by many as having a sound that is most similar to the human voice. Thanks to its rich tones, the Cello is featured in both classical and popular music genres. The Cello has a history spanning over 450 years. Renowned composers such as Bach, Beethoven, Haydn, and Prokofiev have composed famous pieces for the Cello, including solo works and orchestral arrangements. The Cello belongs to the string family, which also includes the Viola, the Violin, and the Double Bass.
1. The first Cello
The first ever Cello was invented in the early 16th century in Italy, a few years after the Violin and Viola were invented. The earliest record of the Cello’s existence dates back to 1535-1536, recorded by Gaudenzio Fenali in Saronno, Italy.
2. The origins of the Cello
Invented in the early 16th century, this huge instrument has a highly versatile history. The Baroque period saw Bach composing solo Cello suites. Haydn, Schumann and Brahms make use of Cellos in concertos in the Classical and Romantic eras. In recent times there has been a rise in solo Cello pieces and soloists frequently play modern pop and rock music.
3. The Cello is a string instrument
The Cello is the second largest instrument in the strings family, second only to the Double Bass.