How hard is it to learn the cello?

Question

I've been playing piano for 13 years. I've learned other instruments randomly like flute and tenor sax. They were both really easy to pick up.

Also I'm wondering the cost of a beginner cello. Should I go with a second-hand one? How much do lessons cost on average?

Answer 1

piano is harder to play than a cello...

Answer 2

If you have a good ear, (which is sounds like you're pretty talented), you should be able to learn it fairly easily.

The beginning stages are the hardest, but once you get going you'll be fine.  

My lessons were $40 a lesson.  I know thats pretty expensive though, so... yours should be a bit less than that.

As for a beginner's cello, I would guess you could find one for a few hundred dollars.

Answer 3

How hard is it? Stringed instruments are difficult because there's so much going on: bowing with the right hand while your left is moving over the fingerboard. It's pretty challenging.

The other respondent had some great specifics. Just wanted to add that, if you're not sure you'll be able to stick with cello, you might rent one initially. The teacher you select - you're going to get instruction, right? - can help you find the right instrument.

I just picked up the flute too, although eventually I took lessons because I wanted to improve my tone and technique.

But string instruments are different animals - you will really want to get a teacher so you learn about bowing, especially, as well as finger placement on the strings.

Answer 4

You've played piano for a long time! You'll be able to skip the learning how to read music part, but playing the cello is very different from piano. Learning the technique (how to hold a bow, finger positions) will take time, but is not impossible.

Visit this music company's website http://www.sharmusic.com to see how the prices for a cello are. Since you are just beginning, it is best if you rent a cello from a local music shop first, or buy an inexpensive cello. (After all, you won't be worrying about the quality of the cello while you're learning all the basic technique). Then, you can upgrade to a better instrument that is priced at around $1,000 if you are still determined to keep learning. Middle to advanced level players aim to get a cello that is priced above $1,000.

Lessons will depend on who the teacher is. For a lower lesson price, you can ask a university student who is majoring in cello to teach you. Professionals might charge around $60-$75 an hour, while very good professionals will charge up $120 an hour.

Answer 5

Well, as for reading music and understanding music, composers and musicality you should be alright. As for technique, you're going to have to start at square one.

1) A teacher will cost you anywhere from $25 (university student) to $100 (professional cellist) an hour. I am a master's student and I charge $35.

2) A beginning cello will cost aroun $800 bucks if you get a beginner outfit with the case, bow and rosin. But I suggest you rent if you're not sure you're going to stick with it. That way if you DO decide to stick with it you can invest in something better. Don't rent from anyone but a luthier (a violin maker). Then you know its set up right and you can ask all the questions you want and know that they have the knowledge to answer you and they won't be pulling information from their butts (as general music owners tend to do)

3) Second-hand string instruments don't have the stigma that a lot of other instruments have. In many cases they are often better. When you're ready to buy, ask another question and I can be of service in that area. I've bought and have helped to purchase many instruments.

Good luck. Cello is absolutely amazing! I love playing. It's really my life.

~Lisa