Sunday, April 9, 2017

What's the Best Sounding Cello?

By Andy Fein, Violin Maker and Owner, Fein Violins

In our shop, we're often asked "What's the best sounding cello?" Everyone wants the best sound, of course. Every player wants to have great tone, great projection, and fast response. Who wouldn't??? But..... (and there's always a but) I think two words have been left out of that question. The question really should be "What's the best sounding cello FOR ME?" Or, my child, friend, spouse, etc.

The 'King' Amati cello, made circa 1555

(If you read my previous blog post What's the Best Sounding Violin?, much of the following will sound familiar)

The wonderful cellist Myung-Wha Chung plays on what I consider to be one of the best (if not THE BEST!) sounding cellos I've ever heard, the 1731 'Braga' Stradivarius cello. I've also had the opportunity to study this cello in depth.