Our cello instructor Ben Kalb knows that starting cello lessons to learn how to play the cello can be intimidating to start, but he has put together his top 7 tips to make your cello lesson successful!
1. Tuning.
Learn to Play Cello!
Make sure your cello is in tune before you start to play. Even the slightest bump of the cello can cause it to go out of tune, so be careful when carrying it around even when it’s in the case. The best way to keep your cello in tune if you are not sure it is sharp or flat is to purchase an electronic tuner and make sure it is set to “440” frequency.
Start with the highest string (A), then work downwards string by string (D, G, C), using the fine tuners to adjust the pitch.
If it is not registering close to the note of the open string, the peg needs to be adjusted. To adjust tuning pegs, it helps to stand up and face the cello, holding the neck (fingerboard) of the cello in one hand and turning the peg with the other. Slowly turn the peg tighter (to raise pitch) or looser (to lower pitch), pushing the peg in as you turn, and see what note registers on the tuner. Then use the fine tuners to adjust.
2. Rosin / Bow.
Make sure your bow is adequately rosined before you start practicing.
Tighten the bow so that the bow hair is taut and makes a flat surface, but not so much that it creates too much tension on the stick of the bow. The more you practice, the more you will need to rosin your bow! You can clean the strings every so often with a damp cloth.
Make sure to loosen your bow after practicing.
3. End Pin / Rockstop.
Making sure the cello end pin does not slip on the floor or carpet is essential, and there are many devices called rockstops or cello anchors which can be purchased. The most reliable cello anchor is the adjustable strap which is attached to one leg of your chair or bench.
4. Scales and Open String Practice.
Learning your basic scales is an essential part of cello playing, and is a great way to warm up. It is not only a great way to make sure you are playing in tune and your left hand position is in check, but a great way to focus on your bow position.
Make sure the bow is playing at the “contact point” on the string, or the point equidistant from the end of the fingerboard and the bridge. This is where you will produce the fullest tone and be able to develop the most control.
Practice very slowly, using full bows and playing whole notes on each scale tone, making sure to stay on the contact point especially when you change bow direction. This exercise can be also be achieved simply using open strings, so that you can concentrate only on the bow placement and you can give your left hand a rest.
5. Stay Inspired!
Listen to lots of different kinds of music, and if you’re listening to classical music in particular, it is interesting not only to check out different performers’ interpretations of the piece, but to learn about their lives and inspirations as well as the composers’ stories and inspirations.
If you’d like to play a popular song on the cello and you are wondering if it is possible, the answer is yes! Just ask your teacher and we will help write out an arrangement for you. The most important thing is to balance practice exercises with songs or pieces that make you excited to play.
6. Be Kind to Yourself.
Patience is your friend!
Remember it takes time to learn a new instrument. Don’t practice for too long at a time if you start to get frustrated. Even playing for 10-15 minutes and then taking a break is perfectly acceptable, and can be good for your mind and body. Be sure to take a break or stop playing if you feel too much tension. There is a solution to improving your technique on every level, so make sure to ask your teacher any questions you may have.
7. Last but Not Least, Congratulations!
You have chosen a super cool instrument that is fun to play and many people think is awesome and beautiful to listen to — enjoy and rock on!!!
Find More About Our Cello Instructor Ben Kalb Here
