Cello: Anatomy of the Instrument for Beginners

The cello is a string instrument known for its expressive sound. It is closely related to the violin and the viola. These instruments share similar components, with some exceptions like the endpin, but are differently sized and proportioned. So, what are these components exactly? Here’s our guide to the anatomy of the cello, along with tips from the widely popular cellist Andrew Savoia. Let’s start from the beginning.

Profile: Cello

Stentor SR1102 Cello Student I 1/8

• Full Name: Violoncello
• Birth Period: Around the mid-16th century
• Instrument Group: String instrument, Viola da braccio family
• Body Length: 75 to 76 cm
• Total Length: Up to 124 cm
• Range: Over 4 octaves
• Number of Strings: 4
• Tuning: C, G, d, a
• Smaller Versions: Child-friendly versions from 1/16 to 7/8
• Special Feature: Almost exclusively played while sitting

Cello: The Body as the Resonating Chamber

The cello has a body typically measuring around 75 cm. This body consists of a slightly arched top plate on the front, a back plate, and the ribs on the sides. Generally, the ribs, neck, back, and bridge of the cello are made of maple wood, while the top plate is commonly made of spruce. A distinctive feature, also seen in other string instruments, is the F-holes carved into the top plate.

Cello Anatomy

Masterful Trick for the Resonating Top Plate

A common misconception among amateurs is that these F-holes solely serve to project sound outward. Their primary function is to make the top plate less static and more flexible, thus enhancing its resonance. It’s crucial to understand that the sound of the cello doesn’t come solely from the resonating body but from the vibrations of the entire instrument, primarily through the resonance of the top plate.

The Baroque Scroll and the Pegbox of the Cello

Like the violin, viola, and double bass, a hallmark of the cello is the scroll, which forms the artistic end of the pegbox. This is an aesthetic decoration originating from the Baroque period. Some instruments feature highly intricate scrolls carved in various shapes and forms. The pegbox holds the pegs, which are used to tension the four strings of the instrument.

Tailpiece with Fine Tuners

It’s easy to see that the strings running over the neck must also be secured at the other end. This is done via the tailpiece, which also houses the fine tuners. This setup ensures the strings are fixed along their entire length, but without the bridge, they would lie too flat on the neck. The bridge, usually positioned between the F-holes, serves as a spacer to maintain the correct string height.

Roth & Junius RJCE 4/4 AS Student Cello Set

Cello: Neck and Fingerboard Without Frets

Thus, the strings hover at the correct height over the neck, allowing different notes to be played. Typically for string instruments, the fingerboard has no frets. Beginners must discover and memorize the correct finger positions. Fingerboard markers can be helpful for novices:

Fingerboard Marker

Securing the Cello with the Endpin

The tailpiece is directly connected to the endpin, commonly known as the ‘spike‘. The endpin is adjustable to fit the player’s height, preventing the cello from slipping and securing it on the floor. To prevent scratches and slipping, especially on smooth surfaces, endpin stoppers are used. These, along with rosin, the “green snake” i.e. dampit or humidifiers for moisture control, and cleaning cloths, should be part of every cellist’s accessories.

Viva la Musica Cello Endpin Stopper BL

What else you need

• Bellacura Fingerboard Oil for refreshing fretboards
• Petz Microfibre Cleaning Cloth to remove rosin
• Pirastro Oliv/Evah Pirazzi 900100 Kolofon adhesion for a great tone
• Petz String Cleaner – for longer string durability

Cello: The Bow and Bow Hair

The soul of string musicians, the extension of their expression, remains the bow. Though not part of the instrument itself, the cello bow is essential for playing. The bow consists of a stick with a tip at one end and a frog at the other. Bow hair stretches between these points, and the hair must be tightened by turning the screw on the frog clockwise. The correct tension is achieved when there is about a pencil’s width of space at the narrowest point between the stick and the hair.

Cello Bow

5 Cool Facts About the Cello

Did you know?

• The cello had to earn its place as a melody or even solo instrument. The star among string instruments was already the violin during the Baroque period.
• Due to its emotional sound, the cello was initially mocked as a “grief box.”
• In Italian, the syllable “ello” is actually a term of endearment, like in Limoncello. At the beginning of its journey, the cello was not the big brother of the violin, but the little brother of the violone, from which the double bass later developed.
• In fact, until the 1950s, the position of the cello between the legs was considered indecent for women. Therefore, female cellists modestly played in a “ladylike” side-sitting position.
• Pioneers for the cello in pop music and beyond were The Beatles with “Eleanor Rigby” and “Strawberry Fields Forever,” both from 1966.

The Beatles – Eleanor Rigby

Video from the Charismatic Cellist

Fortunately, we have someone who can explain the anatomy of the cello in an engaging and comprehensible manner. Andrew Savoia, a cellist and content creator, has garnered a massive following on YouTube, TikTok, and other social media platforms with millions of views. Andrew eagerly shares his knowledge, particularly with beginners and those enchanted by the cello’s sound, who are getting acquainted with the instrument step by step. This made it compelling for us at Thomann to give him the opportunity on our channel, “Thomann Music,” to introduce you to this emotionally resonant instrument. Those with basic questions about the cello will find more than just an introduction to the basics here.

Combined with Practical Playing Tips for the Cello

Andrew also provides practical playing tips, demonstrating how to produce distinct tones by varying the bow position, from long, flowing legato notes to crisp pizzicato and the percussive Bartok pizzicato, where you pull the strings. His secret for interpreting pop music lies in combining various techniques and dynamic variations. His musical goal is to create something captivating and exciting. His instructive message is that you too can achieve this with clear explanations.

Age-Appropriate – Cellos for Kids and Teens

Beginners are sometimes overwhelmed by the dimensions of an “adult” (full-size) cello, depending on their age and body size. Following the motto: “The instrument should fit the musician, not the other way around”, instrument makers provide the perfect solution with shorter scales, allowing kids, teenagers, or smaller adults to enjoy the enchanting instrument.

Buying a Cello: Our Advice for You

Are you considering learning the cello and getting an instrument? Or perhaps for your child? Do you have questions in mind? Our team in the String Instruments Department is happy to advise you, without obligation.
Visit our shop in Treppendorf, chat with us, or call us – whichever you prefer. Or simply browse our online shop with a click on this link.

Cello: Guide

Do you want to read more about the cello? Click here for more information about the instrument.

Lawrence started playing the electric guitar because of his passion for rock music. Back in the day he played in a metal band, but now plays more for himself.

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