cello shopping... how to?
- needing a better quality instrument that is out of your price range can be difficult, but you should still be brave enough to overcome the awkwardness in music stores and try some things out to get an idea of what you prefer -
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So far I have never come across a “guide” or any article on how to go about selecting (or affording) a professional-level instrument. All the greats, and many soloists who are currently successful in the profession were loaned instruments through instrument banks or simply GIVEN extremely valuable, fine instruments (i.e. Stradivari, Guarneri) due to their immense talent and fame. Some cellists I have encountered through my studies who are not as famous, but certainly have successful careers, obtained their instruments through generous donors who recognized their talent, or generous supporters of the arts who were willing to lend a loan to be later repaid. No matter what the circumstance of how these players got a hold of the instruments necessary to build a career, it leaves us aspiring musicians a little dumfounded at times...
I currently play on the same Jay Haide cello my parents afforded for me when I was fourteen. It is worth about $5000, and has done well for me so far, but the need for a higher-level instrument and bow is long overdue. Like I said at the opening of this post: how the heck do you find an instrument? I already know that I can’t afford a $40,000 or even $20,000 instrument right now, but I am not one to wait until I have that kind of money saved before I start looking. The thing is... showing up at a music store (for me it’s usually the Sound Post, or recently, Remenyi House of Music) and asking to try some cellos when you definitely aren’t ready to purchase one the same day, or even in the same year, can be a little awkward.
“Hi what can we help you with?” “I’m just here to try some cellos?” “What price range were you looking for?” “around $20,000... although I will not be purchasing today. I’m looking for the near future”... and the STARES. Upon leaving: “Well, if in the future you actually want to purchase a cello, here’s my card.”
Yea... see what I mean? I guess I shouldn’t care so much about what they think, I still get to try the cello, right? It’s just that I think it makes sense to try some things, see what makers I may like, what eras I might have a preference for.. do I like newer or older cellos? Do I like French or German? What sound am I really going for, something stronger in the high or low range? The considerations to take into account when “test-driving” cellos aren’t that difficult to come up with on your own. You just need to feel if the instrument works well with you and I guess one that you “connect” with. (Also it should be in good condition and work technically as well of course).
So far I’ve only tried about four different cellos in stores in Toronto.. who knows how many are out there that may work better for me than these? Only one so far I felt really sad leaving behind without taking it (an older French cello, bright tone), but I shouldn’t limit myself to trying instruments out simply because I don’t have the funds.. who knows? Maybe my generous soul will come along and say “hey, you’re talented, would you like a nicer cello?” I will say also I have definitely noticed a difference in my sound and the feel of things with a master-level bow on an higher-priced cello than my own, which also confirms my belief in it being a necessity for a career as a string player. I hope this post helps those who may be searching for that future cello (/violin/viola/bass/what have you) to know that you’re not alone in wondering how to get your hands on one, and that you shouldn’t feel awkward trying expensive instruments out, regardless of your financial situation... it will make it easier to narrow down what works for you when the time comes to purchase one.
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