String & Woodwind Instruments

How To Buy A Cello?

How to Buy a Cello

What are some of the factors to consider when you are buying a cello? Aside from the age and experience of the user, there are other considerations that need some thought before going out and buying one.

Age and height are the best factors in identifying the size of the cello to purchase. The cello varies in four sizes according to the player’s height and age.

1/8 size: 4 to 6 years old
1/4 size is best for 5 to 7 years old children
1/2 size for for seven to eleven years old
3/4 size is compatible for 11 to 15 years old
4/4 size: 15 and above

One good tip to consider when buying your first cello is to bring along your teacher or a professional cellist. Ask him to play the instrument to determine sound quality.

The quality of the wood used for the cello is also important in selecting. Some of the best quality cello is constructed from spruce and maple. Typically cellos with spruce tops with maple sides and back produce the best sounds. Take note that the higher quality wood creates more beautiful sounds. Wood from certain tree species found in certain areas of the world are sought for their sound qualities and are very expensive.

Young cello players or beginners may buy cellos made from laminated wood (layers of wood glued together) since they are still trying out the instrument or may need to purchase bigger cellos as lessons progress.

It would also be a good tip to remember to ask cello vendors if the cello’s top is made of maple as these are sometimes made from maple laminate. Tuning pegs made of ebony are the best quality but many players say that pegs made from rosewood are just as good. Before running off to the check out counter, check your cellos tuning pegs and slots as properly shaped as cellos with poorly shaped pegs and slots cannot stay in tune.

Look for cellos with endpins ( the thin post that rests on the floor while elevating the cello for playing) which can be adjusted. Some cellos need separate endpins which can also be purchased individually.

A good way to determine a cello’s quality is to inspect the top and back. Good quality cellos have hand carved tops and backs. Machine produced cellos are alright but hand carved cellos produce better sound and last longer. cellist are excellent to bring along whe buying cellos as they are able to identify if the cello is hand-crafted.

The bow is another key piece you need to consider for a cello purchase. Bows with excellent quality affect sound. Some cello makers include high quality bows while others don’t. However, you can always pick another bow should you find your bow unsuitable.

Cost is another good deciding factor. It is advised to get cheaper cellos for young children and beginners as there is a need to purchase better ones as the child gets better or the player progresses. However, there are cellos available for rent, which is a good option to have as cellos are some of the more expensive musical instruments.

For those considering taking up cello professionally or for a serious hobby, then perhaps an expensive cello would be a worthwhile investment.

For whatever reason or purpose, good luck in buying a cello!

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