Cello

Lessons you can take:

We offer cello lessons through some of our music centres such as Five Valleys Music Centre in Stroud.

When to start:

As early as possible. Age 6 or 7 recommended.

Costs:

Hire:

We charge £26.90 per term, plus VAT where applicable (instruments are available in several sizes so we recommend that you hire until a full-size instrument is required). Find out more about hiring from us.

Buy:

From about £325 for a new student outfit. (cello, case & bow). Advanced students should be prepared to spend considerably more. Second-hand instruments can be hard to find, and buying second-hand can be a minefield. Old instruments are usually preferable to new. Prices can vary between £300 and several thousand pounds depending on quality, so never buy second-hand without seeking your teacher's advice.

Other:

Strings will need replacement - cost between £4 - £10.

Pros/Cons:

Pros:

You will never be short of opportunities to play. Because you have total command of the sound it's very rewarding when mastered. Huge amount of music for the cello.

Cons:

Difficult to play - particularly in the early stages. No opportunities to play Jazz or Folk music.

Find out more about the cello from the BBC’s guide to the orchestra.