Advice for anyone wishing to take up the cello

The cello is an extremely rewarding instrument to learn to play as it enables you to play solo, chamber and orchestral music.  Even at a basic level it is possible to join beginner level orchestras and ensembles allowing you to further develop your playing by observing and listening to others play.  Playing in an orchestra or ensemble is also a very sociable activity for children and adults.  There is a large variety of repertoire available for the cello right from beginner level, ranging from early music from the 17th Century through 19th Century Romantic music to modern contemporary music including arrangements of current pop songs and jazz music.

It is possible to start learning the cello at any age although I would advise most children to wait until they are at least five years old.  For any children beginning to learn the cello it is important to have the right size of instrument.  Cellos are available in a large range of sizes ranging from a sixteenth size to a full size cello for adults. Most five-year-olds would start on an eighth size, but it is always best to take advice from a teacher about what size would be appropriate.  As children will quickly grow out of their first cello it is advisable to rent a cello initially and most string instrument shops offer cellos for hire.  If you chose to buy a cello, a basic beginners model costs from £350-£700 and it is best to buy from a reputable instrument shop.  In terms of buying a cello for a more advanced student one should always seek advice from a teacher as there is a huge range of instruments available in a very wide price range.

Once you have a cello always ensure that you store it in a safe place away from a radiator as heat can damage the instrument.  The strings on a cello can occasionally snap but replacement strings can be bought for around £25 per string.  

Learning to play any instrument is a commitment and takes practice.  I would advice that young beginners should try to practice for a minimum of 10 minutes at least four times a week.  A small amount of frequent practice enables students to progress well and enjoy playing.