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Profile of the Cello

From , former About.com Guide

cello

Cello owned by Dr. Reinhard Voss which he loaned to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Photo taken on November 29, 2004.

Sandra Teddy/Getty Images

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.
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