Purchasing your first cello is a thrilling adventure, filled with a sea of info that’s essential to dive into headfirst. Curious about which cello brands hit the high notes for a newbie? Wondering what essentials make up a perfect starter kit for a beginner? And which brand strikes the right chord as the absolute best? All these questions will be uncovered as we explore the top five cellos that will tune beginners into talented cellists. Ready to embark on this musical journey? Let’s hit the strings and find out!
Things to consider when buying a beginner’s cello
Size
With instruments coming in many different sizes, you are probably wondering “how do I know what size cello to buy?” This is a perfectly valid and important question!
Choosing the correct size instrument is an important step that must be considered carefully. There are essentially 3 main categories:
- The Standard Full Size
A full size cello has a back length of approximately 76cm. This size is suitable for the vast majority of adults and is what you will see professionals playing. - Fractional Sizes
Fractional sizes such as ¾ , ½, ¼, ⅛ , 1/10 and even 1/16, are great for children. These sizes allow children as young as three the opportunity to play the cello in a way that promotes a good technique, proper set up and won’t leave them feeling frustrated that they can’t reach all of the notes. - The ⅞ Size
Many cellists would refer to this as the all important 7/8 size. This size is designed to be slightly smaller than the standard full size, but without losing any of the power.
If you are purchasing an instrument for a child, and therefore looking at fractional cellos, please check out our other guide called “What Size Cello Does My Child Need”, for more detailed information and specific sizing charts.
Type of Cello
There are three different types of cello, characterised by their main material: traditional wooden cellos, electric cellos and carbon fibre cellos.
Wooden cellos are the most popular and are the ones most commonly recommended for beginners as they come in a wide range of sizes and prices.
Electric and carbon fibre cellos are only really suitable for intermediate to advanced players who require this type of cello for a specific reason: such as playing outdoors often, or requiring amplification.
If you are just starting out, your best option would be to choose a traditional wooden cello as this will provide you with the most flexibility to explore different genres of music. You can always move on to a different type of cello later.
Cello material & quality of the build
It may come as a surprise, but cellos aren’t made out of just any wood. Professionally made instruments should be made out of spruce (for the top) and maple (for the sides, back and neck). A lower quality of wood, such as laminated wood, might be more durable and cheaper, but does not produce the same quality of sound as a single piece of spruce or maple.
As the wood ages and experiences different temperatures and humidities, it adapts to the shape of the cello as well as maturing. This allows for greater responsiveness and possibility of subtleties, and means that cellos can appreciate in value.
Although mostly aesthetic, the colour of a cello could be a factor in determining quality. Varnish is used to treat the wood, and whilst a solid block of colour might look very tidy, it actually indicates that a LOT of varnish has been used. Too much varnish can become very heavy and actually hinder sound production and quality.
Ebony is a hardwood, and as such, an ebony fingerboard will not wear away over time. Ebony is commonly used for the pegs and tailpiece as well, although plastic can be used on cheaper instruments. Good quality ebony will have a tight grain, and may even appear smooth.
Another tell tale sign of a good quality instrument is inlaid purfling. Purfling is the double black line around the very edge of the cello. Some manufacturers cheat, by painting this on; however true inlaid purfling is important as it prevents the cello from cracking if it gets knocked.
Bow quality and weight
Most cello bows are made out of Pernambuco, which is a type of wood from Brazil.
A bow should be heavy enough that it produces a powerful, rich sound, but also light enough that it does not cause the player any pain whilst holding it.
Bows should not have any cracks in the stick, and they should be straight – ie. when you look straight down the length of the stick, it should not bulge to one side.
Cello brands
There are several well known brands of beginner string instruments. These brands are trusted due to their long lasting instruments, consistent quality and durability. These include:
1. Stentor – Stentor is one of the biggest manufacturers of string instruments in the world, with exports to more than 30 countries. They began trading in 1895 and since the 1960s, more than one million young musicians have begun their musical careers with a Stentor.
Their student cellos are reliable, sturdy and consistent. The company does offer some more advanced models, but they are most well-known for their entry level instruments which make up the core of many schools and local hub instrument loan schemes instrument.
2. Primavera – Primavera have been designing and manufacturing instruments since 1995 with an aim to revolutionise student string instruments. All Primavera instruments have been designed especially for primary school level teaching and come highly recommended by many teachers and schools.
3. Hidersine – Hidersine have been in operation for 130 years, and although they are primarily known for their rosins, they also produce arange of excellent cellos for students of all skill levels, from absolute beginners to advanced students. Their Vivente and Piacenza cellos are perfect for a student cellist looking to upgrade from a beginner instrument.
BONUS BRAND
Although predominantly they are an online music store selling all brands, Gear4music actually have their own brand of cello and have 62 different options! As an ‘own brand’, they are incredibly cost effective (in fact the cheapest of all the above) – but crucially, you won’t suffer on quality. The reviews of these cellos are incredible, and I’d be happy to recommend one to any of my beginner students.
TOP 5 BEGINNER CELLOS
STENTOR STUDENT
COMES WITH: Cello, wooden bow and soft padded case
FEATURES:
-Amber brown varnish
- Ebonised straight grained fingerboard
-Pau rosa pegs
STENTOR
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international maker
- Sturdy and durable instrument
- Good price
- Variable quality amongst items
- Not ebony fingerboard
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PRIMAVERA 100
COMES WITH: Cello, wooden bow and soft padded case
FEATURES:
-Full ebony fingerboard
- Ebony pegs
PRIMAVERA
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international maker
- Full ebony fingerboard and pegs
- Easy to play and produce a nice sound
- Variable quality amongst items
- Slightly more expensive than other beginner models
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
HINDERSINE VIVENTE
COMES WITH: Cello, wooden bow and soft padded case
FEATURES:
-Ebony fingerboard and pegs
- Flamed ribs, scroll and back
Hidersine
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international maker
- Full ebony fingerboard and pegs
- Flamed ribs, scroll and back make instrument look more expensive
- Expensive for the quality
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
ARCHER 500
COMES WITH: Stand, Strings, Endpin Stop, Tuner and Cloth
FEATURES:
-Hardwood Bow & Hard Case
- Natural flame
ARCHER
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international maker
- Hard case included
- Expensive for the quality
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
GEAR4MUSIC
COMES WITH: Stand, Strings, Endpin Stop, Tuner and Cloth
FEATURES:
-Laminated Spruce and Basswood Body
- Durable Hardwood Pegs and Fingerboard
- Solid Maple Bridge and Steel Strings
Gear4Music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Cheap
- Lots of extras included in the price
- Doesn't come set up - bridge and strings not attached when shipped
- Not an ebony fingerboard - may wear easily
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Accessories for your cello
CELLO CASE
Most student cello outfits will come with a padded bag included in the price. These are great for providing a lightweight way to carry your cello. But they don’t always offer the best protection.
Here are some alternative suggestions:
COMES WITH: 1 Padded Bag
FEATURES:
-25mm tricot interior padding
-2 wheels
-Tearproof and water protected
GEWA
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international brand
- Protects cello from scratches and some knocks
- Won’t protect cello from a major knock or fall
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: 1 Semi Rigid Case
FEATURES:
-Plush lined interior
-High density foam construction
-2 bow holders
HIDERSINE SEMI-RIGID
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Protects cello from knocks
- Slim and lightweight design
- Available in 4 sizes
- Won’t protect cello from a major knock or fall
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: 1 ABS Outer Shell Case
FEATURES:
- Foam Injected Interior Absorbs Impact from Bumps
- ABS Outer Shell for Long Lasting Durability
- Bow and Music Pockets for Keeping Your Accessories
BAM Classic
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Protects cello from knocks & drops
- Lightweight design
- Detachable rucksack carrying straps
- Expensive (but worth it!)
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rosin
Rosin is a solid form of tree resin and is used on the hair of the bow to help provide more grip when bowing across the string. Rosins can come from many different types of tree, have a different colour, produce a different sound and even smell different!
Cello rosin is usually a dark red colour, whereas violin/viola rosin often looks orange or gold, and double bass rosin looks almost completely black!
Rosin is an essential piece of kit that you will need to keep with you at all times!
FEATURES:
Uses the original recipe handed down from Ladislav Kaplan
- Low dust
D'Addario Kaplan
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Amazing case
- Low Dust
- Is a pleasure to use
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Spike Holder / Endpin stopper
An essential piece of equipment unique to cello and double bass players is the spike holder or endpin stopper. There is nothing worse than your spike slipping across the floor mid-performance!
To solve this problem, there are several inventions, some which work better than others, but all are better than nothing!
BLACK HOLE
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Small, compact size
- Easy to use
- Only suitable for small endpins
- Not reliable on all floors
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
FEATURES:
- Uses non slip technology
rayzm cello non-skid
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Reliable - won't slip
- Easy to use
- Fully adjustable
- Small to transport
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Spare Strings
When you buy a cello it will come with a set of strings already fitted. But it’s always a good idea to have a spare set, just in case one snaps! You might also want to upgrade from the standard factory strings, to something a bit better.
Some strings have a synthetic core made out of Perlon or Kevlar; these strings are very quick to respond and powerful.
Other strings are made of gut (sheep’s intestine), wrapped in metal. These strings have an enormous range of colours and a rich tone, but they don’t retain their pitch very well! These strings are favoured by early music specialists as they are authentic but these musicians are constantly having to retune their instrument!
But the vast majority of strings available to purchase have a steel core, are strong, powerful and produce a wide range of sound colours.
Strings come in a variety of tensions, making them more or less easy to play, and many are also available in different sizes.
Here are a two sets of strings that I’d be happy to recommend to anyone:
COMES WITH: All 4 strings
FEATURES:
- Solid steel core
- Available for 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, 3/4, 4/4 sizes
D’ADDARIO
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international brand
- Stay in tune for a long time
- Unaffected by temperature and humidity
- Smaller range of tonal colours compared with strings that are double the price
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
COMES WITH: All 4 strings
FEATURES:
- Multi-stranded steel core
D’ADDARIO
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Trusted international brand
- Stay in tune for a long time
- Quick bow response
- Suitable for all musical genres
- More expensive than other strings
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Rental & loan schemes
One of the most common questions asked by those wanting to start out on the cello, is whether to buy or rent a cello. The answer depends on a few key aspects: how you are learning, how committed you are, how advanced you already are.
If you are learning through a school or local music service, it may be possible to borrow a cello. Many schools and music services have an instrument loan scheme where you can borrow an instrument free of charge or for a small annual fee.
For children these schemes are excellent as they are an easy way to ensure that they always have access to an instrument of the correct size.It doesn’t make much sense to buy something so expensive, that they will only outgrow later!. Their teacher will be able to advise when it is time for them to move up a size, and this can then be put in place very quickly.
If you are an adult beginner or learning with a private teacher. Whilst it may be possible to rent a cello from a local music shop, these schemes are rare. You are most likely going to need to own your own cello.
Most shops offer a trial scheme where you pay a deposit and can take the cello home to try for around 30 days. At the end of the trial you can then buy the cello outright, or some shops may offer a rent to buy scheme which means you can spread out the cost.
Gear4music for instance run a fantastic scheme of a 2-year warranty & 30-day money-back guarantee for all their products, giving you chance to buy and trust the brand.
Top 5 cellos for beginners
Summary
Buying a cello can seem like a complicated process, but once you know what type of cello you’re looking for, the size and your budget; you will find that everything else becomes a lot easier.
If you can, talk to your teacher for their advice, before heading out to the shops. Don’t forget to try lots of different instruments and take advantage of any trial periods!
Making music should be fun, so don’t let the stress of buying an instrument deter you from following your passion!
I hope you enjoyed this article – if so please share it and let us know what you thought in the comments below!
Best Cello for Child Beginners
Stentor Student Cello Outfit
A sturdy and durable instrument from a trusted international manufacturer.
Best Cello for Adult Beginners
Primavera 100 Cello Outfit
A solid, reliable cello from a well respected company.
Best Cello strings for beginners
D’ADDARIO Prelude Cello Strings
These are a cut above the other lower priced strings on the market
Great to see a straightforward guide for us beginners. Always dreamed of playing the cello, and this article makes the start seem less daunting.
Thanks for the info! Been on a mission to find the perfect beginner cello for my kiddo. This article is a goldmine. Between the cello brands listed, does anyone have experience with how forgiving they are for young, first-time players?
Interesting list of cellos for beginners. However, one might consider that the specific needs of the player, such as hand size and physical strength, can greatly influence the ideal choice of an instrument. Additionally, it might be useful to note the significance of the setup performed by a skilled luthier, which can dramatically improve the playability and sound of even lower-priced models.
hey, so about these cello cases, they all waterproof? gonna be taking it to school and stuff, don’t want it getting wrecked.
Curious about the rosin mentioned here. Is there a specific type that works best with these beginner cellos, or will any standard rosin do?
Really appreciate the breakdown of the cello brands and accessories. It’s making my dive into the cello world much easier. I’m leaning towards the Archer 500 since it seems like a good fit for a complete noob like me. Excited to get started!
The Archer 500 is a solid choice for beginners. Make sure you also invest in a good bow and rosin to get the best sound. Happy playing!
Was checking out the beginner cellos and couldn’t help but wonder if there’s a big sound difference between the Primavera 100 and the Stentor Student models? Anyone got insights?
I have never been a string person but after this article, maybe.
I wonder why you read this article then!!! The cello is a fab instrument…