How to Put New Strings on a Cello

Cello Strings

All stringed instruments need new strings from time to time. The strings deteriorate with playing and sometimes break. Putting on new strings is a necessary skill for all string players.

Things You'll Need

• New strings
• Cello

Instructions

Putting New Strings on a Cello

1. Take off the old string, and throw it away. Many people start with the A string and work their way down to the C string.

2. Take the new string out of its packaging, and put the top end of it in the correct peg hole inside the peg box (inside the scroll).

3. Start turning the peg clockwise to begin wrapping the string around the peg. Make sure that it winds evenly layer by layer on the peg's stem.

4. Take up enough of the slack so that you can put the bottom of the string through the tailpiece and it won't pop out.

5. Continue winding the string around the peg until it starts to get in tune.

6. Let the string rest for a few minutes and then continue tightening, until the proper pitch has been reached.

7. Repeat this process with the other strings.

Tips & Warnings

• Put the new string(s) on the cello several days before you have a lesson or a recital. The strings take a while to stretch and retain their pitch.

• Your cello will need to be re-tuned frequently after putting on a new string(s).

• Just remove one string at a time when putting new strings on a cello. Taking all of the strings off at once will collapse the bridge.