Name of Instrument:
Cello or Violoncello; during the 18th century composers showcased the cello's lower register (i.e. baritone), but also used its higher registers later on.
Family:
String
How to Play:
The musician, or cellist, sits down while holding the instrument between his legs supported by a metal spike. The cellist rubs the bow across the string to produce sound. Common playing techniques used in string instruments include double stop, harmonics, mute, pizzicato, tremolo and vibrato.
Types:
Cellos come in a variety of sizes to suit the age, height or body length of a player. read this article to help you find the right size of cello for you or your child.
First known Cellos:
The first known maker of cellos was Andrea Amati of Cremona during the 1500s. Amati apprenticed as a lute maker and in 1525, he became a master instrument maker.
Cellists:
Some of the notable cellists are Pablo Casals, Yo-Yo Ma, Gregor Piatigorsky and Mstislav Rostropovich, to name a few.