How to Pluck on the Cello

Plucking is an important part of playing any string instrument. It is a technique that is often used in all genres of music to add a different sound to a piece with the string section. This technique of plucking uses the thumb to anchor the left hand so that plucking is more controlled.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Put your cello like you would to normally play. Don't pick up the bow. You won't need it in order to just pluck the instrument.

2. Place your left hand thumb 3 or 4 inches above the end of the finger board. You want to pluck well above the area of the strings that you bow on since you never want to touch that area of the strings.

3. Roll or arch your hand over the strings. You want your hand to curve over the strings so that you can pluck any of the strings and not touch any of them. You want the strings to be able to vibrate freely.

4. Use your index finger to pluck a string. Simply catch the string with the tip of your finger and release it. Make sure not to touch the string while it is vibrating so that it isn't muffled.

5. Utilize both your index finger and your middle finger to pluck strings once you are comfortable with plucking. Using two fingers will allow you to pluck notes more quickly and allow you to play faster and more complicated pieces.

Tips & Warnings

• Plucking is a great way to practice your fingering with your left hand without having to concentrate on bowing as well. Simply lay your bow to the side and go through a piece focusing on your fingering and pluck each note with your right hand.