Violin or Cello: Which Instrument Is Right For Me? This is one of those subjects that will have as many opinions as there are readers so let’s start off by saying – please do join in on the discussion – add your comments below – every different viewpoint has value and may help someone somewhere!
Choosing whether to play the violin or cello can be difficult, but this article will hopefully help you consider the advantages and disadvantages of each.
The violin and cello are two of the most well-known and commonly studied instruments in the string family. Each one is central to the makeup of the orchestra we know today. Becoming familiar with the pros and cons of these two instruments will help you decide whether the violin or cello is a better fit for you.
Pros and Cons of the Violin
The violin’s most commonly cited advantage is that it’s practical. The violin is (generally speaking) less expensive than the cello at comparative levels. It’s also smaller and easier to get around and the violin’s range and tone, which is similar to that of the human voice, has an immediate appeal.
Because the instrument has been popular now for around 400 years, there is ample repertoire to keep both budding and experienced violinists challenged. Within orchestras, spaces for violinists also tend to be the most numerous, so in that sense, violinists have an advantage when it comes to putting their talents to work (especially overwinds, brass, and percussion). Compared to other string sections, however, the violin can also be more competitive because so many people play it. It might not be too difficult to earn a spot in the second violin section but earning a place among the upper ranks can be more difficult.
Pros and Cons of the Cello
The cello is often cited for its practical disadvantages – mainly its size and comparative expense. But for students who enjoy the sound of the cello more, hauling around a larger and more expensive instrument is well worth the care and effort.
The cello’s low register and tonality resonate with many musicians far more than the violin’s higher register.
Both the violin and cello have a unique range and repertoire that tend to draw different people. While violin repertoire is probably more extensive, the cello also has a well-established and diverse repertoire, including significant solo works.
Fewer students study the cello than the violin, so cellists are usually in higher demand than violinists. This tends to hold true even when taking into account the typically lower number of cellists required to create an orchestra or chamber ensemble.
Which is Harder to Play: Violin or Cello?
Many students wonder, which instrument is more difficult: the violin or cello? People who have tried both instruments tend to say the cello is less difficult due to its more natural position. The position of the violin can feel awkward at first, however advanced violinists insist that it becomes natural over time.
Many experienced musicians say that both instruments have their own difficulties. For example, although a cellist’s playing position is easier to learn, the thumb position on the cello is difficult for many students. Advanced cellists also must learn three clef instead of just one.
Making the Choice Between Violin or Cello
Music students and their families can do a number of things to help them in their decision between the violin or cello.
- First, consider what opportunities are available at school or in the community. Keep long term goals in mind.
- Make sure the student has exposure to both instruments. This can include videos, CDs, or local concerts. Local colleges and conservatories often perform concerts for the general public and many of these feature the violin and cello.
- To be sure you’re making the right choice, it’s always a good idea to sample each instrument and take a couple of lessons. Many schools or teachers will offer a couple of ‘taster’ lessons.
- Above all, the student should love the sound of whichever instrument they choose, whether it’s the higher and more cheerful violin or the deeper and rich cello.
Why not rent?
A good way of helping you make up your mind is to start off on a rented instrument. This can be a very low-cost way of quickly finding out if it’s for you or not.
Let us know what you think….
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