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 Starting
Out: Stepping Up
People of all ages and from all walks of life decide to take up the cello. It's unique sound and range exert a strong pull on many, and the successful production of that sound quickly becomes an important personal goal. There is really no age or background requirement. In our studio is a boy of 7 who began when he was 4. On the other end is a man who began, with minimal musical background, at 86. Both are doing very well, and for both it has become an important part of their lives. WHAT SORT OF CELLO DO I NEED AND HOW MUCH DO I HAVE TO SPEND? This is a question most cellists have at all stages of playing. As both teachers and luthiers, we feel that it is incredibly important to find a cello that 1. feels good to you, and 2. easily produces a sound you like. Your teacher can help you, but ultimately you, not your teacher, are the one playing it. It is hugely important to us to have cellos in all price ranges that play easily and beautifully. At any level, but especially in the earlier stages of cello playing, it makes a big difference in an individual's development and motivation if their sound is something that inspires them and is easily produced. It is certainly in an instrument dealer's interest to have you believe that the more you spend, the better your sound will be. This is often true, but almost as often we have lower priced cellos that can outplay the very expensive pedigreed ones. Below are listed 6 cellos that are very reasonably priced, all of which play beautifully and easily, all of which are well set-up. Every cello we sell has been personally selected by both of us. Peter Malasso Outfit. Here you get a case and decent bow and a nicely made, lovely playing instrument that enables you to begin without a large financial outlay.
Jurgen Margeson. This German cello is under $2000 but it has a surprisingly professional sound: deep and complex.
Johann Leibman. A European Gofriller model that is focused and full throated. Advancing players of all ages have selected the Leibman as their permanent instrument. On sale: $2450.
Wilhelm Himmer. This European Gabrielli model has been purchased not only by players in the US, but also by several cellists from overseas. Robust and powerful, and capable of both solo and chamber work, the Himmer also has a nicely flamed back and lovely antiqued varnish. On sale: $2950.
Alain Brule 2004. This is a cello made for us from wood we purchased and seasoned. It is a poplar-back cello that was played on by a fine young cellist who soloed with his prestigeous youth orchestra before trading up to a much more expensive instrument. It is one of the most soloistic cellos in the shop (and a personal favorite of Paul). It can compete in almost every situation including against full orchestras and 9 foot grand pianos: but has a lovely complex sound that is as chocolate as it gets in performance. Lovely to look at and its sound is very easily produced.
Unlabeled German, ca. 1930. Here is a find. Most people like the sound of cellos with some age: their wood has gone through chemical changes that happen only with time, and this cello produces the kind of sound that comes from this aging process. Focused, deep and complex, it is why cellists look for older instruments. These are more and more difficult to find, so it probably won't be around long.
Read other sections of our site about our guarantees, trial policies, discounts, trade-up policies, etc. We're both cellists and teachers as well as business owners. Our commitment is to work with you personally and help you select an instrument that will be really satisfying for you. One of us will be glad to speak with you personally about your needs and budget. Email or call us at 802 229 1501. Paul & Melissa |
452 Brookfield
Road