Best
Student Cello
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Overall: Classic and reliable student cellos that last for the first few years of playing.
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Best Feature: Committed beginner or intermediate players.
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TedScore™: 7/10
Best
Intermediate Cello
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Overall: Those who want richness and complexity to their sound
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Best Feature: Fantastic projection and playability thanks to the Aubert bridge
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Professional Cello
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Overall: Those who wish to have a copy of a classic masterpiece.
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Best Feature: Classic size allows for enhanced projection.
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TedScore™: 7/10
Have you ever wondered, “How much is a cello?” If you’re considering playing this fantastic instrument, prepare for a fun adventure!
Buying a cello is like finding a new friend – you want something that’s good quality, fits your style, and has a charm. Prices vary a lot, from simple beginner cellos to fancy ones that speak to your heart.
So, get ready, fellow cello fan, as we dive into the world of cellos. We’ll figure out the price mystery and ensure you know how to find a great cello without breaking the bank. Stick with me; it’s going to be an exciting journey!
How Much Does a Cello Cost?
Price Range of Student Cellos
For cellists just starting out it’s not necessary to spend too much on their first cello instrument. The cheapest beginner cellos will typically cost £250/$300.
This price range should include a basic case, bow and rosin.
DESIGNED FOR: Your very first cello lessons, a less expensive cello that is brand new.
FEATURES: Laminated spruce top with spray finish. Maple bridge and pegs.
OTHER INFO: A lightweight hard case, steel core strings, bow and rosin are included.
Gear4Music Student cello, 1/2, 3/4, full size
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!
- A reliable and hard-wearing first cello. Includes all the accessories that you need to get started.
- Does not give much dynamic range or projection.
- Does not give much dynamic range or projection.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Committed beginner or intermediate players.
FEATURES: Maple and spruce body. Rosewood pegs and fingerboard.
OTHER INFO: Comes with a hardwood horsehair bow with an ebony frog, and a soft case.
Stentor Student 1 Cello Outfit
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!
- Very well made for this price point.
- Has a carved solid body, unlike many other economy models which would use a composite wood or laminate.
- Sound quality is rich and consistent and would be suitable as you advance through the grades.
- Comes with a soft case so you will need to be careful not to damage it while transporting.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: A high quality beginner cello or a step up instrument for a committed intermediate cellist.
FEATURES: Hand carved tonewood body, ebony fingerboard and pegs.
OTHER INFO: Includes lightweight soft case, backpack straps, music storage and reflective panels, a composite bow and steel strings.
Primavera 200 Cello Outfit
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!
- Even, well rounded tone. Hard-wearing strings and practical accessories for travel.
- A big investment for beginners.
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™.
Price Range of Intermediate-Advanced Cellos
After some years of playing, you might feel that you would like to step up to a better quality cello. Or you might feel that you are happy to pay more upfront for a well made first cello instrument.
An intermediate cellos might sell for somewhere between 1000-4000.
DESIGNED FOR: Powerful sound, high quality fittings and accessories
FEATURES: High quality tonewoods which enables Gewa to keep the cost down on this instrument.
OTHER INFO: Includes a carbon fibre bow, Thomastik synthetic cello strings and a lightweight soft case with backpack straps
Gewa Allegro VC1 Cello
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!
- Great accessories, carbon fibre bow and synthetic strings will improve better tonal quality and character.
- Hardwearing ebony fittings.
- Machine made body makes the instrument less individually characterful.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: All that you need to advance and upgrade your playing level
FEATURES: Hand crafted tonewood body, hardwood horsehair bow and a lightweight hard shell cello case.
OTHER INFO: Flamed maple wood back which is finished with Stentor's Shellac varnish.
Stentor Conservatoire Cello Outfit with accessory pack
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!
- Each handcrafted and crafted using high quality cello materials
- Antastic, better sound out, higher quality materials, extra accessories including a music stand and a cello endpin stop are included in the outfit.
- Enjoy having top quality tools and accessories to hand.
- The hard shell case is protective but a little bulky and awkward to carry.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Those who want richness and complexity to their sound quality
FEATURES: Hand carved tonewood back, ebony fittings, Aubert bridge, D'addario Helicore strings, bulletwood bow, rosin and a soft case
OTHER INFO:Fantastic projection and playability thanks to the Aubert bridge
Yamaha VC7SG Intermediate Cello
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!
- Fantastic projection and playability thanks to the Aubert bridge
- increases resonance and Helicore strings which have a quick bow response.
- Soft case is not fully protective, the sound may be too bright and harsh for some intermediate level players.
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™.
Price Range of Professional Cellos
Professional cellos should be at the height of quality and craftsmanship.
Luthiers will seek out the finest material available for these instruments, and they will pay attention to every single detail in the construction and set-up process to create as rich, characterful and powerful a sound as possible.
A professional cellos price range from 4000 to 20,000 and over. While many professional cellos are either antique in origin or are made on an individual basis by luthiers, some instruments are mass-produced to a professional standard.
DESIGNED FOR: Those who would like to combine the beautiful sounds of a traditional acoustic cello with an electric instrument
FEATURES: Maple and spruce hand carved body, ebony fittings. Bridge pick-up with pre-amp internally fitted.
OTHER INFO: Decorative scroll inspired by a 1710 Stradivari viola da gamba.
Bridge Tasman Electro Acoustic Cello
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!
- Easy to use as either an acoustic or electric cello.
- High quality strings and fittings.
- Comes with silver hard case with wheels.
- Does not come with a bow, not as much projection, tone or sound complexity as acoustic instruments in this price category.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate players and advanced players who want a powerful instrument with projection.
FEATURES: Hand applied oil varnish, ebony fingerboard and tailpiece, rosewood paris eye pegs and a maple wood two piece back.
OTHER INFO: Carbon fibre endpin.
Amati Brothers Cremonese Cello copy of a 1616 model
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!
- A high end copy of a historical cello with a warm yet powerful sound.
- Slightly smaller than a standardized cello size
- Comfortable to play for those with smaller fingers and hand reach, particularly in higher left hand positions.
- Smaller size may affect quality of projection.
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™.
DESIGNED FOR: Those who wish to have a copy of a classic masterpiece.
FEATURES: Hand applied spirit varnish, hand carved tonewoods body
OTHER INFO: Ebony fittings, rosewood paris eye pegs and a carbon fibre endpin
'Davidov' Stradivari Cello copy of a 1712 model
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!
- Classic size allows for enhanced projection.
- Not as comfortable for those with smaller reach.
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™.
What Determines the Price of a Cello?
HISTORY OF Cello
The cello is part of the violin family of stringed instruments and was developed in the 16th century. Some of the earliest string instruments were significantly larger or smaller cellos than the cello that we would use today.
The famous Italian violin maker Antonio Stradivari is credited with standardizing the cello size during the early 18th century.
It was around this time that the cello, which had previously been used mainly for accompaniment and bass lines, started to be used as a solo instrument. The cello range spans from deep, resonant low notes to soaring, expressive high tones, allowing for a broad spectrum of musical expression. Its versatile range makes the cello a captivating and essential instrument in various musical genres.
Some of the first pieces of music for solo cello that are still played today such as the Bach Solo Cello Suites were written.
How Much Does A Cello Cost
Summary
Regarding cello prices, there’s a wide range to think about. Beginners can find good, affordable options from $200 to $2,500. For intermediate players, prices go up from $500 to $10,000, but that’s because you’re getting better quality. Professional cellos are the real deal, often costing over $10,000.
The price depends greatly on the materials and how the cello is made. Getting that beautiful cello sound requires advanced techniques and top-notch materials.
Choosing your cello is a big deal because it invests in your musical journey. It’s not just a purchase; it’s about finding the perfect musical partner for years to come.
But before you go…
Check out our article What Size Cello Do I Need…
saving up for an intermediate cello, this guide is super helpful to figure out what my target should be. thanks robert emery!
Really appreciated this overview! Helps me explain cello costs to my parents better. Thanks for the solid info, Robert Emery!
Well I didn’t write the article, but it’s my pleasure!
interesting read, was thinking about switching to cello. seems like a big investment though.
hey, does it make more sense to rent a cello first? kind of lost here, thanks!
totally agree with cello guru, rented mine for a year before deciding to buy.
renting is a good idea to start! lets you get a feel of the instrument without the commitment.
This article hits the right notes for anyone curious about cellos. Great job, Robert Emery, for breaking down the costs effectively.
was thinking about getting a cello but seeing the prices maybe ill stick to just listening for now
gotta love how a wooden box with strings attached costs more than a laptop. music truly is the food of love… and debt.
dreaming of a professional cello but my wallet says nah, maybe one day lol. nice article though.
hey, I was wondering if getting an intermediate cello is worth it over a student one? like, does the sound really change that much? cheers, Robert Emery for the insights.
as some1 who jumped from student to intermediate, absolutely! the sound depth is wild. worth every penny.