The Cello

This instrument originated in the early 16th century as a member of a whole family of instruments, of different sizes and with varying compasses, known as 'viole da braccio'.
At first the cello player sat with the instrument placed between his legs on the floor or stood with it leant against his body or supported with a strap.

This technique was good enough for the simple demands made of the instrument in the 16th century, when the violin family occupied a musically and socially humble position, being used principally for dance music. The manner of playing was derived directly from that of the violin at this time. However, as the importance of the violin grew, so did that of the cello, and the parts written for it required a change of technique.

Towards 1700 it became usual for the player to place the instrument between his knees and support it with his calves, in the traditional posture of the bass viol player. The instrument was from then held without the aid of the left hand, leaving it more free to execute fast passages and changes of position, and is used today by everyone from the youngest students to virtuosos.

Concertina • Clarinet • Violin • Dumbek