Cello
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The cello is a bowed string instrument with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Often considered the smaller cousin of the violin, despite being much larger in size. It has a deep, mellow sound that has made it a popular choice for classical and chamber music repertoire. In recent years, the cello has also found a new popularity in genres such as rock and roll and jazz.
Modern cellos are typically made from wood, with spruce used for the top (soundboard) and maple for the back, sides, and neck. The strings are traditionally made of gut, but synthetic materials are now also commonly used. Cellos are tuned in fifths like other members of the violin family, with the lowest string (C2) tuned to a low C.
The cello is held between the knees in a sitting position, or standing up with the aid of a strap around the neck. The left hand fingers stop the strings to create different pitches, while the right hand bow produces a continuous sound.
There are many different bowing techniques that cellists use to produce a rich and varied tone, from sul ponticello (bowing near the bridge) to col legno (bowing with the wood of the bow instead of the hair).
Cellists must learn how to produce a wide range of dynamics, from soft and delicate pianissimo passages to powerful fortissimo outbursts. They must also be able to switch instantly from one extreme to the other, a technique known as spiccato.
Famous cello works include Bach's Suites for Solo Cello and Haydn's Cello Concerto in D major. Prominent cellists of the past include Pablo Casals and Jacqueline du Pré, while today Yo-Yo Ma and Julian Lloyd Webber are among the most famous cellists in the world. While the cello is often associated with classical music, it is also a versatile instrument that can be used in a wide range of genres. Today, cellists can be found playing everything from folk music to heavy metal.