Cello

What is a Cello?

The cello is a beautiful and expressive instrument with a deep, warm tone that makes it one of the most beloved members of the string family. It plays a crucial role in orchestras, chamber ensembles, and solo performances, but it’s also found in film scores, pop, and rock music!

Cellists create sound by drawing a bow across the strings or plucking them (pizzicato). The cello is tuned C, G, D, A (one octave lower than the viola), giving it a rich and resonant voice that can sound both powerful and lyrical.

Unlike violins and violas, the cello is played sitting down with the instrument between the knees, supported by an adjustable endpin that rests on the floor.

Some famous cellists include Yo-Yo Ma, Jacqueline du Pré, Pablo Casals, Hauser, and 2CELLOS.

Renting a Cello

We offer a Rent-to-Purchase program for cellos, making it easy to start learning while investing in an instrument your child can eventually own. Since cellos come in different sizes, younger students often start on a smaller instrument and size up as they grow. Our rental program ensures they have the right fit at every stage!

🎵 Like-New Cello Rental – A high-quality, professionally inspected cello with minor cosmetic blemishes and fractional sizes available. Budget-friendly, with protection for damage, theft, and maintenance.

  • Rent-to-Purchase – Every payment (up to 50% of the retail price, minus tax) goes toward purchasing a brand-new cello of your choice.
  • There is no month cut-off to accrue your equity because your child may not be ready for a full-size instrument by month 36.

💡 Call us anytime, and we’d be happy to explain our Rent-to-Purchase program!

Every student rental includes:
✔ Cello, bow, and padded bag or case
✔ Rosin (for bow grip on strings)
✔ Protection coverage (for accidents, theft, and maintenance)
✔ Free school delivery
✔ Easy purchase plans
✔ Legendary Brighton Music Center service!

With flexible plans and expert support, getting started has never been easier. Let’s make music happen! 🎻🎶

Cello Care & Maintenance

A well-maintained cello sounds better and lasts longer! Here are some essential supplies and tips for cello care:

Rosin – Applied to the bow hair to create friction and produce a clear sound.
Rock Stop/Endpin Anchor – Prevents the cello from slipping while playing.
Microfiber Cloth – Used to wipe rosin dust and fingerprints off the cello.
Extra Strings – Cello strings can break or wear out, so having a backup set is essential.
Humidity Control – Cellos are made of wood, which can expand or shrink with changes in temperature and humidity. Using a case humidifier helps prevent cracks, warping, and tuning issues, especially in dry or fluctuating climates.
Proper Case or Bag – Always store the cello in a padded case or bag when not in use to protect it from damage and temperature changes.

Regular bow rehairing, proper tuning, and careful handling will keep a cello in top shape! Need supplies? We’ve got everything your cellist needs! 🎶

Types of Cellos & Step-Up Options

As your child progresses, they may need a cello that matches their growing skills. Cellos come in different levels, with differences in materials and craftsmanship:

🎵 Student Cellos – Made from laminated or basic wood, these are designed for beginners. They offer a warm, basic tone and are available in smaller sizes (1/8 to full size) for growing students.

🎵 Intermediate Cellos – A step up in quality, often made from better wood (aged spruce and maple) with improved craftsmanship for a richer, more resonant sound. They also have higher-quality strings and fittings for improved responsiveness.

🎵 Professional Cellos – Handcrafted from high-quality aged tonewoods, these instruments provide the best tone, projection, and responsiveness. They are designed for serious musicians and advanced students, often featuring fine tuners, custom fittings, and expertly carved bridges for peak performance.


If your child is ready to upgrade their cello, we’re here to help! Schedule a demo appointment to try out step-up cellos and find the perfect fit. Experience the difference in sound, feel, and performance—because the right cello can make all the difference! 🎶