Cello is an elegant and rewarding instrument, but can be challenging to play when first starting out. This guide is here to ensure that you have the best start possible in order to truly appreciate its beauty and rewards.
When learning the cello, it’s crucial that your knees are spread wide apart and that the instrument is in an ideal position so you can reach all strings comfortably.
- Get a Good Bow
Every new hobby demands strong motivation and perseverance to succeed, including learning cello. If you are considering picking this lovely instrument up as your new hobby, think carefully about what your ultimate goals will be with it – what activities or performances would you like it for?
Consider your schedule and available time for daily practice sessions, then set attainable weekly goals that you work to accomplish – this will keep you motivated and focused on the purpose of daily practice sessions.
To properly play the cello, you will require the necessary equipment and techniques. At its core is a cello and bow; many adults may choose to rent an instrument first when not sure whether they will stay with it long-term; local violin shops offer rentals at reasonable monthly fees which may later be put toward purchasing their instrument.
- Get a Good Tuner
As with any new endeavor, having the appropriate equipment is key when starting out on an instrument. A tuner makes tuning easier, and will save a great deal of frustration! You can find one online or download an app onto your phone that will assist in doing this task.
Tuners make playing in the appropriate key easier, and will help ensure you achieve optimal sound from your strings. Be mindful when tuning your cello not to press down on any strings – listen for whether they are flat or sharp before pressurizing them!
Your cello needs to be secure and accessible during practice sessions; having it nearby increases the odds that you’ll make regular practice time! Also keep a set of spare strings at hand in case some wear and tear needs replacing over time.
- Get a Good Case
Cello lessons can be expensive, but there are ways to lower costs when first beginning. Renting a cello instead of purchasing it yourself may save a substantial sum; and there are even free downloadable cello lessons online which will teach the basics and help get your musical journey underway!
Planning out and sticking to your end goals when learning anything is key to staying on the right path and remaining motivated during difficult periods. Understanding why you want to learn cello is one way of staying inspired through obstacles along your journey.
Establish a regular practice time. Practice is an integral component of learning to play cello, and making this a daily habit will enable faster progress.
- Get a Good Lesson
Before embarking on learning to play the cello, make sure your end goal and motivation are clearly established and set before starting lessons.
A good teacher will discuss your goals and musical preferences before creating a tailored lesson plan to meet them. Look for teachers with both teaching experience and performing experience to ensure they fully grasp all of the nuances involved with playing an instrument and can pass this knowledge along to their students.
A great teacher will also assist in establishing proper posture on the instrument, but remember that every body is different – this may take some trial-and-error before finding what feels right for you. Furthermore, be mindful that daily practice on your cello will develop muscle memory and sound quality.
Finally, cello lessons for adults should include tips on how to integrate the instrument into your busy lifestyle. Make sure to discuss with your teacher the amount of time you can dedicate to practice and the best way to maximize learning within that time frame.
