Cello
Learn To Play The Cello
The cello is the string instrument that has a beautiful sound and is certainly thought to be closest to the human voice in terms of timbre. It has a range capable of playing all the human choir voices including: soprano, alto, tenor and bass. It has a beautiful, warm, songlike tone. Furthermore, it's a great instrument for playing in an ensemble and similarly, as a solo instrument, the cello shines.
Finding the Right Tutor
MusicTutors are proud to offer you some wonderful cello tutors across the country, providing you with the opportunity to learn this magical instrument. Above all else, our tutors will work with you to devise a comprehensive and personal programme of study. Furthermore, coverage will include correct posture, technique, bow hold and lastly note reading.
Ultimately, enjoyment will be at the centre of the experience for you. Whether you are a beginner or have played before does not matter. In other words everyone is welcome to start. Here, you can see a list of our fabulous cello tutors throughout the country
It is possible to start learning to play cello from between the ages of 3 and 5 years. Consequently, there are different sizes of the instrument ranging from 1/16 to 4/4. However, there is also a 7/8 cello, which is almost a full size.
If you have any doubts about what size you or your child should have, there are fortunately guidelines for finding the right size that will suit your child. Importantly We highly recommend an expert tutor helps with this process considering how crucial it is to successful learning.
Choosing the Right Size Cello
This table shows guidelines for finding the correct cello size based on age.
| Age | Size |
|---|---|
| 4-6 years old | 1/8 |
| 5-7 years old | 1/4 |
| 7-11 years old | 1/2 |
| 11-15 years old | 3/4 |
| 15+ years old | 4/4 |
This table shows size of the cello based on body height:
| Height | Size |
|---|---|
| Under 131 cm | 1/8 - 1/4 |
| 131 - 151 cm | 1/2 |
| 151 - 164 cm | 3/4 |
| Over 164 cm | 4/4 |
Caring For Your Cello
It is important that you learn to care for your instrument from the start. Therefore, never put the cello on a rough surface as it may damage the body. Also, The best advice is to put the cello back in its case when you take a break from practice. Moreover, the cello strings should be brushed off with a nice dust cloth every time you play. Furthermore, the bow should be tensioned every time you play and therefore loosened when you are finished. Lastly, don't forget to apply resin to the bow once in a while (however it is not necessary every time).
Tuning Your Cello
There are four strings on the cello, arranged from the lowest pitch to the highest, C-G-D and lastly, A. At first, it is very difficult to tune your own cello because it is hard to play two strings at the same time. Therefore, it is usually recommended to purchase a tuner that can help you tune using just one string at a time.
Most cellos have small screws near the bridge, at the bottom of the strings. It is much easier to tighten or loosen these fine screws rather than the large screws at the head of the cello as these are often difficult to screw up. Therefore our recommendation is to use technology ,at least at the beginning until you have built up the skill and technique to tune by ear.
Whatever Your Age or Level - Practice is key
Practice for short concentrated periods rather than for a long time. Furthermore, Give yourself a break if you feel your concentration slipping or if you are feeling tired. Above all, practice should be enjoyable, especially at the beginning of your journey. Lastly, setting yourself small goals and working towards these each day will build a feeling of success and achievement in your playing.
Technique
Correct technique in terms of posture, bow hold and finger positioning is vital to securing great tone and progress when playing the cello. Consequently, great tuition and regular practice are the keys to progression.
Exercises
Bow technique is based on the principle of weight. Importantly, use your own body weight to guide the bow and try to avoid uneven pushing motions. Moreover, watch professional cellists and see how the bow glides, how fluent the motion looks. Finally with practice, most importantly lots of practice, you can achieve this fluency too!
Record Your Progress!
It's a good idea to record you or your child's playing from the beginning so that progress can be seen, heard and most importantly celebrated! It is important to point out that everyone and anyone can learn to play. When you deal with music, you also learn other essential skills. For instance, your ability to concentrate, to listen and to work with others will undoubtedly improve alongside your musical skills!
Find Cello Lessons Near You
Do you want to learn how to play the cello? Maybe you already know, but you want to improve your abilities? We have lots of talented and experienced teachers all over the country. Find a teacher in your city today!
- Cello lessons in London
- Cello lessons in Birmingham
- Cello lessons in Leeds
- Cello lessons in Liverpool
- Cello lessons in Manchester
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Who Are We?
The office team of MusicTutors are all professional musicians and educators. We also believe that we have the best job in the world. We get to spend our day talking to students across the country about how much they love music and we have helped hundreds of people connect with the perfect, professional tutor for them. We'd love to help you too! Please get in touch with us and tell us your story. 07946125613 Or send us a mail to [email protected]. We can't wait to hear from you!