The cello is the second-largest instrument in the violin family, which is also home to the violin, viola and double bass. Just like the double bass, the cello is placed on the ground, supported by the end pin, and it's usually played with a bow in all kinds of classical music.
A Versatile Instrument Fit for All Styles of Music
The instantly-recognisable, sonorous sound of the cello is cut out for solos as well as accompaniments whether you're part of a symphony orchestra or string quartet, but the ever-versatile cello can also be used to play pop, jazz or even metal.
Picking Up and Learning to Play the Cello
At Bax Music, aspiring cellists will find both affordable entry-level models as well as serious study instruments. Since nothing is easy at first - the cello especially - we always recommend taking lessons with a skilled teacher or signing up for a proper music school. Besides a good playing posture to prevent aches and injuries, it's essential that any beginner cellist learns the right basic techniques from the get-go.
Standard Cello Dimensions
Just like the violin and viola, the cello comes in various sizes. The table below will give you an idea of the various different standard sizes. The right size for you or your child depends on the arm length, the span of the fingers and the study method. If you're not sure what you need, always ask an experienced teacher for advice.
Size - Total Length
1/10 – 74.9 cm
1/8 – 85 cm
1/4 – 97.7 cm
1/2 – 106.6 cm
3/4 – 114.3 cm
4/4 – 121.9 cm
Strings, Parts and Accessories
Besides cellos, you'll find a broad range of cello strings, parts and accessories here at Bax Music, including purpose-made humidifiers, string instrument maintenance gear and end-pin supports. So you can flesh out your repertoire, we also stock cello songbooks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cellos
What do you call someone who plays the cello?
Someone who plays the cello is called a cellist.
What kind of cellos are there?
From roughly the 16th to the 18th century, cellists played what's known as a baroque cello. This type of cello had no end-pin and was played with a slightly different bow. Another baroque string instrument is the violoncello piccolo, which is a 5-string cello with a short scale length, specifically designed for a number of compositions by Bach.
What does 'cello' mean?
Cello stems from 'violoncello' which literally means 'little big viola'.
How much does a cello cost?
Entry-level models hover between £250 and £500, while serious study instruments typically cost upwards of £1,000.
Why does a cello sound lower-pitched than a violin?
Cellos are roughly twice as long as violins. Not only that, a cello comes fitted with fatter strings and is tuned lower as standard, which is mainly what lends it that deeper sound.
