Ellen, thanks so much for the tips on how to find a good fit. I've never known what to look for in that area. I have lots of trouble with it because as far as height, I'm average, maybe even a little tall (5'7)- but I have a very short torso, short arms, and very small hands. I carry a lot of tension in my right shoulder, and I think it's because I have so much trouble getting my bow hand around the instrument, I have a tendency to try to reach over it instead. So what would you think, something narrower around the middle, or less deep maybe? However, there is no such thing as “one-size-fits-all” in the world of musical instruments, so don’t feel bad if you need a smaller cello. People are built in different ways, and if you can only reach a ⅞ cello or smaller, there’s nothing wrong with that. Cello Sizes for Children Stentor Conservatoire 16″ Viola Outfit (Inc set up, case, bow, shoulder rest &, D’Addario Ascenté strings & rosin) You see, cellos are not a one-size-fits-all instrument. Instead, they come in a wide range of sizes. This way, every cellist can find a cello that perfectly fits their bodies irrespective of their age or stature. However, the question most people ask is, ‘how do I know the right cello size to choose?’

With most of the strain in your left arm gone, you will find that you can play much more conveniently. As such, you can improve your cello skills much faster! Conclusion Well, I suppose I have to reply, since I might be the only 3/4-playing adult on here I'm 22, just graduated with a Bachelor's of Music, and stand a full 4'9". I play a custom-built cello from 2007.

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Considering the large size of the cello, children can’t be expected to use the full-sized instrument. I remember when I first showed an interest in playing the cello – I was a young violist of thirteen years old and my friend let me hold his cello. Let’s just say that I could barely keep things stable! Answer: No, this is a common misconception – cellos are smaller than double basses and can be played whilst sitting down, whilst double basses are around a foot taller, are played from a standing position, and produce much lower tones. Conclusion Andreas Zeller 16″ Viola Outfit (Inc set up, case, bow, shoulder rest &, D’Addario Ascenté strings & rosin)

If you’re overwhelmed by cello sizes, don’t feel bad because it is confusing. I remember when I first began learning the instrument, I had no idea what I was doing. However, I did my research and am now very familiar with the sizing system, and I’m going to break it down for you. If you’re feeling puzzled and need someone to clear the air, read on to find out more! How does Cello Sizing Work?You won’t be surprised to learn that there isn’t a one-size fits-all solution when it comes to cellos. As with violins and violas you need the right sized cello for your age, shape and height.

A few comments. You need to be in the right size cello for you. It has to fit you in the body length so when you're seated the left knee is under the center bout, half-round hits the chest and the C peg is approximately at ear level. In addition the string length -- the playable portion from the nut to where it crosses the bridge -- should be a good fit for your hand. Because cellos, like shoes and clothes, are made using different size/dimensions depending on the company/maker, they are not all identical. The body has to fit right so that your bow arm is falling where it should so you can control the bow in a range of places from bridge to fingerboard. The left hand has to be able to make a sensible span so when Bach or [name the composer] calls for some nasty chords or double stops, you can reach them. Also octaves and extensions can be problematic if the string length is so long that it forces to hand to be very uncomfortable. Finger release is a given in my world, but where some octaves, chords and double stops are concerned you simply can't release.

cellos are often targeted towards classically trained children who are excelling at the instrument. Perhaps a 15-year-old cellist is performing particularly well and is expected to begin making use of the full range of an orchestra-standard cello, but their height and arm span simply are not suitable. Andreas Zeller 15″ Viola Outfit (Inc set up, case, bow, shoulder rest &, D’Addario Ascenté strings & rosin) Based on the value you get, you can then compare it with this table and determine the arm length’s ideal cello size.

Indeed, it is vital that the size of a cello corresponds to its player’s size, and we’ll tell you why.Variety is the spice of life, they say. Not surprisingly, this saying also applies in the world of musical instruments, and more specifically, cellos. One of the ways of determining a player’s cello size is by using their age. Although this method is not the most accurate, it almost gets you close to your ideal cello size. That said, here is a cello sizing guide based on the player’s age. Stentor Conservatoire 15.5″ Viola Outfit (Inc set up, case, bow, shoulder rest &, D’Addario Ascenté strings & rosin) Stentor II 16″ Viola Outfit (Inc set up, case, bow, shoulder rest &, D’Addario Ascenté strings & rosin) As for adults on 3/4, I have had a number of these customers over the years. If you are petite and you need a petite instrument that you can control instead of always fighting with a larger one, then you play with what fits. A percentage of the population is in a height range, and some of those play cello, and some are adults and never getting larger. I would say "Do the math" but you're going to have to be happy just knowing that you are not alone in the universe.