In a world of incredible musical instruments, the piano isn’t the only one that reigns supreme. The out-of-this-world sound that the cello produces makes it one of the most beautiful instruments too. The beauty of it is it’s enjoyed by classical music enthusiasts as much as anyone else who isn’t all too keen on the classical in the first place. This has especially become the case with the new and improved version of the instrument, the electric cello, that’s opened up a whole new world of music possibilities.
What is the Point of an Electric Cello?
Much like the traditional instrument, the upgraded one serves as a practice instrument. In a way, it even does a better job at this than the regular counterpart. This would explain why these advanced cellos also go by the name of silent cellos as they provide you the chance to pair them with headphones that allow you to hear yourself play without making any noise for others.
As such, they’re the perfect solution for you to practice on anywhere, whether it’s at the actual classroom, or even at home. And the beauty of this flexibility is you can practice any time you see fit, doesn’t matter the hour or the day as you won’t be a nuisance to anyone.
Electric Cello Benefits
The true aficionados of the instrument would agree that when it comes to choosing a cello for its complex sound, the traditional wins over the modern electric alternative. The fine tuning that’s been done over the centuries has resulted in an acoustic sound that the electric version can’t replicate as such, though it’s nothing a little reverb and delay can’t fix. This, however, doesn’t mean the silent cellos don’t have benefits of their own.
The Solid Body
The main difference that can be noted at first glance is the difference in the body of the instruments. Unlike the traditional cello, the electric cello isn’t hollow so there’s no resonance box. This would explain why they require the need for an amplifier same as in the case with electric violins.
It can be made in several parts, or from that one single piece of wood, both of which are high quality, from woods like maple and ebony. Yamaha’s elegant models are great examples of this exceptional quality. Even though they offer differences in their designs, from the slimmer to the more traditional shape, they still have the solid and not the hollow body despite the hollow-like details of the latter.
The Unique Design
Again, compared to the traditional cello, the electric cellos don’t have the typical aesthetic. Although they share the same elements, such as the thumb rest, neck, length and height of the strings, they can be found in all sorts of variations when it comes to the design. The main goal is to make the most of them with less material, which explains why they typically weigh less than the classic counterparts.
As such, they’re especially great for performers who travel a lot, or those who commute and find it difficult to transport the classic cello day in and day out. Despite the more lightweight body, remember it’s still a solid block, so it’s much less delicate, and you won’t have to worry about any temperature, weather changes, or impact damages as it’s less likely to suffer seams or cracks. It’s even a better option if you care about less tuning.
Another unbeatable advantage here is the fact they also offer you flexibility with the play positions. You’re no longer restricted to the seating position. Depending on the specific cello, and the support accessories you choose, like a harness or a tripod, you can easily play the instrument while standing too. This is great especially if you care about making an impression with the performance movability as you can rest it on your chest instead of the knee!
The Music Versatility
If you like playing classical music, but not only, then for sure you can benefit from getting a silent cello instead of the classic design. Fit for various music genres, among which jazz, rock, and pop too, you can truly come to appreciate the most of this music instrument as you practice and show off your various music playing skills. More so as you also have the chance to add effects to the signal with a processor or pedals, and easily control the volume with the control, aux-in controls, and reverb switches. Who knows, maybe with such an instrument, you’re up for threading the path of success of 2Cellos in the future!
The Lack of Feedback
Know that unbearable sound loop that only gets worse with amplification? Well, that’s no longer a problem, as the electric cello isn’t prone to feedback like the traditional cello, which is great consideration for anyone who plans on performing on a stage.
Australian Atlas 