When it comes to musical instruments, the string instruments are amongst the best. Not only do they create the most beautiful sounds, but they really help to elevate an orchestra.
While many people are familiar with the violin, some people may not have a large understanding of the cello.
It is a truly wonderful instrument that is significantly larger than the violin.
As a result of this, it is only natural to wonder how much a cello costs. In this article we will be delving into this question in more detail.
We will be providing you with an estimate for how much a cello typically costs, and the history of the cello. We will also be discussing whether or not the cello is easy to play and learn
What Is A Cello?
Before we delve into the cost of purchasing a cello, it is a good idea to have an understanding of what a cello is.
A cello is a type of string instrument. It is part of the violin group of instruments, and it is the second-largest instrument in this category.
It features four strings, which are C, G, D, and A. To play a cello, a bow is typically used, though the strings can be plucked for certain techniques too.
When it comes to its size the average cello is roughly 47 inches long when measured from the top of the neck to the bottom of the instrument.
The cello can be dated back to the 16th century, and it has remained a popular instrument.
As they produce a lower sound in comparison to violins and violas, they are better suited to bass tones within a quartet or an orchestra.
Given the size of a cello, they are played sitting down, with the cello placed in front of the musician.
The musician then uses their left hand to press down on the strings to create the different notes needed, and their right hand is used to play the strings with the bow, or their fingers.
Different Types Of Cello
When it comes to the cello, there are many different types of cello that can be purchased. While they all feature the same strings, there are some fundamental differences. It is these differences that can affect how much the cello costs.
There are six main types of cello:
Beginner
These types of cello tend to be the least expensive, as they are intended to be purchased by learners. They are of a good quality, but they are not the best cellos that can be purchased. They are a great starting point to consider.
The cost of beginner cellos does vary, however, they typically cost around $100 to $400.
Step-up
Step-up cellos are slightly better than a beginner cello. While they are not the best quality, they are still a great option to consider if you are looking to play this instrument more seriously.
Step up cellos average at around $800 to $5000 depending on the type and quality you are looking to purchase.
Intermediate
This type of cello is great for someone that has been playing the instrument for many years. It is a great upgrade for those looking to take their skills to the next level.
They are mid-priced, and this is where you really begin to see an increase in the price in comparison to the previous two options.
Given that intermediate cellos are for those looking to take playing the instrument more seriously, then can be quite expensive. They are typically anywhere from $1500 to around $6500.
Performer
Performer cellos are significantly more expensive to purchase. Quite often they are made specifically for the performer, and they are made with very high-quality materials.
They need to sound perfect, and impressive. They are a definite step up in comparison to the previous options listed, and it is professional cello players that will typically purchase this option.
Professional cellos vary significantly in price considering that they are typically custom made. However, they can cost anywhere above $9000 in some instances.
Top-line
Top line cellos are by far the most expensive options to consider. They are the best of the best, and are typically purchased by those who are expert cello players.
They are for those who are looking for the perfect cello that performs well, and wants the sound to be the best it could possibly be.
Top line cellos are very expensive, and some have even sold for a million dollars. There is no specific price linked to these, but they are not cheap to purchase. Typically, they will be well over $20,000, and some will be over $100,000.
Electric
Electric cellos look and sound fantastic. They are typically shaped differently to a standard cello, and they are interesting to look at.
They can be used for live performances, and for when the sound of the cello needs to be elevated.
Given the electrical elements to this type of instrument, they do tend to be more expensive to purchase in comparison to a standard cello. However, they are not on the same level as a performer or top-line cello.
The price of an electric cello varies, but they are typically up to around $1500, though some can be more expensive than this.
Half Size
It is worth noting that a cello can be purchased in smaller sizes if needed. These are particularly useful for people that are shorter, or for children.
As they are not full size, they are typically less expensive to purchase in comparison to the full-size cellos.
As these are smaller, they are a lot cheaper to purchase, and can be up to a few hundred dollars. This does depend on the quality and materials used however.
Materials Used
It is worth noting that the type of wood and the materials used to create the cello will have an effect on not only the sound quality of the cello, but also the price too.
Some woods are far more expensive to use in the manufacturing process than others. This is then reflected in the price.
Other items such as the strings and bow used can have a direct impact on the price too.
Summary
We hope you have found this article useful. As you can see, the price of a cello really does vary quite significantly. It depends on the type of cello you purchase and the quality of the materials used.
While some are only a few thousand dollars, others can be tens of thousands of dollars to purchase.
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