cello
A large string instrument played upright between the knees, with a rich, warm tone.
In Depth
The cello, or violoncello, is tuned in fifths (C2–G2–D3–A3) and has a range of over four octaves. Played sitting down with the instrument between the knees, it is often described as the instrument closest to the human voice in tone quality. Its four strings produce a rich, warm sound that can be both powerful and intimate.
The cello serves multiple roles in an ensemble: it provides the bass line in string quartets, sings melodies in the tenor and alto range, and anchors the string section in an orchestra. Bach's six Suites for Unaccompanied Cello are cornerstones of the repertoire, and the instrument has inspired concertos from Dvořák, Elgar, and Shostakovich.
Pablo Casals, considered the greatest cellist of the 20th century, practised Bach's Cello Suites every morning for over 60 years and said he discovered something new each time.