About the Cello.

The cello is much bigger than a violin, and in contrast to that instrument, it is played in an upright position between the legs of the seated musician, resting on a metal spike, called the endpin. The violone is an outmoded instrument, an enormous viol, similar to a modern double bass. It is an element of the standard orchestra and features in the string quartet and plenty of other chamber groups. Find out more on Violin lessons/Learn to play violin. Generally , the orchestra includes 8 to 12 cellists.

The cello section, in standard musical seating, is found on stage left ( the onlookers's right ) in the front, opposite to the 1st violin section. The principal, or "first chair" cellist is the best cellist in the orchestra. The cellos are a critical part of classical music ; all symphonic works involve the cello section, and many pieces need cello soli or solos.

Lots of the time, cellos provide part of the harmony for the orchestra. An exception are Apocalyptica, a bunch of cellists well known for their versions of heavy metal songs. Another excellent example is Rasputina, a bunch of 3 female cellists committed to an intricate cello style intermingled with Gothic music.