The cello is larger than the violin and viola, but smaller than the double bass.
The cello is a stringed musical instrument , smaller than a double bass and larger than a viola .
Overview
Also known as a cello , the cello is a chordophone : an instrument that generates sound from the vibration of strings. Specifically, it is a bowed string instrument , like the violin or the aforementioned double bass .
The cello is played with a bow . The musician, referred to as a cellist or cellist , sits and places the instrument between his legs, supporting it with a prop or spike on the floor and using the bow to rub the four strings.
The body of the cello (i.e. its soundboard ) consists of a lower lid and an upper lid joined by a sash. In the middle of the top is the bridge on which the metal or nylon strings rest. The bow, meanwhile, is made of wood with tensioned bristles.
It is important to mention that the position of the instrument, the way of using the bow and the playing techniques changed over the years. Through modifications to the pikes, for example, cellists managed to increase the range of the cello.
Works for cello
The cello is a musical instrument that has inspired many magnificent works throughout history, such as the following:
- Cello concertos by Antonín Dvořák : Dvořák wrote two cello concertos, Op. 104, in B minor, being one of the most popular and widely performed today;
- Cello suites by Johann Sebastian Bach : they are fundamental pieces in the cellist's repertoire. Highlights include BMV 1007, in C Major, and BMV 1012, in D Major;
- Edward Elgar's Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85 : It is one of the best known and is appreciated for its emotional and beautiful melody;
- Sonatas for Cello and Piano by Ludwig van Beethoven : Beethoven wrote five sonatas for this instrument and for piano, with Sonata Op. 69, in A Major, being one of the most notable;
- Concerto for Cello in D Major by Haydn : Joseph Haydn wrote several, but one in D Major stands out;
- The Swan by Camille Saint-Saëns – This short piece is part of the Carnival of the Animals suite and is one of the most recognizable works for solo cello;
- Sonata for Cello and Piano, by Rebecca Clarke : written in 1919, it is one of the British composer's best-known works. It is a moving piece that has been praised for its beauty and emotional depth;
- concerto for cello and orchestra, by Sofia Gubaidulina : the Russian composer is known for her avant-garde and experimental style. This impressive work challenges traditional musical conventions;
- Monologo , by Tania León : This work by the Cuban-American composer is an example of contemporary music and has been performed by many prominent cellists.
For the cello to sound, its strings must be rubbed with the bow.
famous cellists
Among the most famous cellists, we can name:
- Yo-Yo Ma : He is one of the most renowned and respected cellists in the world. He has won numerous Grammy Awards and is known for his musical versatility and commitment to classical music, as well as music from other cultures;
- Mstislav Rostropovich – was an influential Russian cellist and conductor. He is credited with promoting contemporary cello works and fighting for human rights;
- Jacqueline du Pré – Despite her short career due to illness, this virtuoso instrumentalist left an indelible mark on classical music and is known for her passionate performances;
- Pablo Casals : he was also a conductor and composer. He was a pioneer in the performance of Bach's solo cello suites and left a lasting legacy in the world of music;
- Sol Gabetta : has gained international recognition for his technique and interpretive passion. He has collaborated with many renowned orchestras and with the outstanding mezzo-soprano Cecilia Bartoli ;
- Alisa Weilerstein – Acclaimed for her musicality and virtuosity. He has performed with major orchestras around the world and recorded numerous albums;
- Natalia Gutman – Has received praise for her expressiveness and musical depth. He has performed with some of the leading orchestras and conductors.