Cello
Cello reviews, articles, and tips for beginners and beyond
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History
The Cello was born in Northern Italy in the early 16th century, built by instrument makers including Andrea Amati and Gasparo da Salo.
They were looking for a way to create a low pitched instrument, by increasing the size of an earlier instrument called the Viola da Braccio.
A big turning point in the instrument’s development was the introduction of wire-wound strings in the 17th century, which meant the main body could be a more manageable size, without compromising on the loudness of the volume.
Cello Specs
A Cello has four strings, tuned to the notes of C, G, D and A. They were originally made from catgut, but in modern times they are usually steel.
The strings are attached to the four tuning pegs, which are used to alter the pitch. They are strung over the bridge, which raises them above the fingerboard.
How To Play
The Cello is normally played in a seated position, with the instrument between the player’s legs.
The most common way to Cello is to scrape the strings with a bow, which is normally made from wood and horsehair.
Another technique is the pluck the strings with one hand, which produces a very different sound from using the bow.
The full name of the Cello is the Violoncello, but it’s normally only known by its abbreviated name.
