How to Hold a Cello

An important part of playing any instrument is holding it correctly. This is one of the first things a novice player learns. This must be mastered and done correctly before learning to play. It is especially important with a cello, which is a large instrument. The player must be able to reach all parts of the instrument. Read on to learn how to hold a cello properly.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Begin in a sitting position. You should sit in a chair. The chair should be average height. There should be no arms on the chair. The seat needs to be flat and hard. The back should be straight. Sit up straight.

2. Adjust the cello to the proper height; this is done by adjusting the endpin at the bottom of the instrument. To find the right height, extend the endpin until the bottom peg on the top is at the same level as the ear.

3. Grasp the instrument firmly between your two knees. The fattest part or the bottom of the body of the cello should be at the same level as the knees. You must use the knees to hold the cello firmly so that your hands are free to play.

4. Place the thumb of your left hand on the back of the neck of the cello. The thumb should be exactly two inches below the peg box. The fingers of that hand can be used to play the different notes on the front.

5. Leave the right hand free. This is the hand that manipulates the bow.