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Playing an instrument requires a lot of dedication and practice, but the effort is worth it. This is how we relieve stress while playing and challenge our brains without overworking them. This sets new, creative thought processes in motion. Now it’s time to find the musical instrument that’s right for you. If you have to choose from the almost infinite pool of musical instruments, you are spoiled for choice. By reading this article, you have already taken a decisive step in the right direction. You have chosen a string instrument, but can’t decide between violin and cello? We have therefore compiled a comprehensive comparison of the two instruments to help you make your decision.
Posture while playing
An important factor in deciding between the violin and the cello is posture during playing. The violin can be played while sitting or standing, the latter being most common with soloists. The instrument is placed on the neck, the lower jaw rests on the so-called chin rest. The left arm holds the instrument in position. Especially at the beginning you tend to hold the instrument too cramped, which can lead to neck pain or cramps in the left hand. Loosening exercises and stretching should become routine.
The cello is played in a sitting position, with the instrument resting between the legs. In the past, the instrument had to be held in position by leg strength; the so-called spike takes over this function. For women, playing the cello was not allowed for a long time, and if it was, it was only in a ladylike position next to the legs. Today, of course, things are different, regardless of gender, the instrument is kept the same. The left hand rests on the fingerboard, the right hand guides the bow, for left-handers the reverse is true. Despite the seated and thus supposedly relaxed posture, a great deal of physical exertion can be observed in outstanding cellists*cello players.
Handiness of the instrument
A decision criterion can also be the circumstance to be able to transport the instrument as easily as possible from A to B. When comparing the weight and size of the instruments, the cello clearly wins. However, this does not necessarily speak for its handiness. Depending on your height, a violin is about 50 to 60 centimeters long and weighs approx. half a kilo. Packed in a handy carrying case, it can be taken virtually anywhere at any time. At the same time, it is no bigger and much lighter than a backpack.
The 4/4 cello, with an overall length of about 1.20 meters, is almost twice as large as the violin and considerably heavier. This is noticeable during transport. Again, it’s best to use a carrying case that you can strap on like a backpack. A case protects the instrument better, but it is also heavier and more cumbersome.
The decisive factor is how you get to your music lessons. If you travel a lot by public transport, it can be a bit cramped with a cello on your back during rush hour. Then it is especially important that the instrument is well protected. Keep in mind, however, that at the beginning of your lessons you will probably not own your own instrument, but will borrow one from your music school. Of course, the cello will always remain on site, so the topic of transport logistics will only become relevant at a later point in time.
Differences in sound
The violin is not for nothing an extremely popular instrument for outstanding solos. Skillfully played, it can transport its listeners into other worlds, the attention of the audience is guaranteed. In an orchestra there are classically far more places for the violin than for the cello. Nevertheless, the high notes are not everyone’s cup of tea, many would even describe them as rather annoying or unpleasant. This has a lot to do with your own perception and your own hearing. It helps to listen to a wide variety of pieces, from classical to modern, when making your decision. Above all, you should include solos for both violin and cello in your playlist in order to get to know the different sounds and possibilities of the instruments.
This will help you decide
If you are still not sure which of the two instruments you want to learn, here are a few things you should do or think about.
- Listen to a lot of classical music. Even if you later want to play something more modern or reinterpret classical music, this is the best way to get to know the different sounds of the instruments. This is also how you will learn the instrument in the beginning, you will be able to tackle new, exciting playing styles only after many hours of practice and learning. If your time and budget allow, you should also attend concerts. Watching outstanding players in action can help you enormously in your decision-making process.
- Check out the music lesson offerings in your area. Are there schools that teach your favorite and can be reached in a reasonable amount of time?? Keep in mind that an overlong journey at any hour will quickly make your motivation disappear.
- Think about the best way to get to lessons. Can you transport the instrument well? Maybe go to a store that offers cello and violin and pick up both instruments. Then you will immediately notice whether the weight and size are decision criteria for you.
- If, despite all the considerations and comparisons, you’re still not sure which of the two string instruments is best for you, you can always take trial lessons for both of them. This may cost a little more money and time, but in the end you will be completely clear about your decision.
Whether you end up with a happy violin or a sonorous cello, the important thing is that you enjoy playing it. Besides, learning one instrument does not mean losing the other forever.