Pulling a rich sound on the Cello: C string

Attention adult cellists! Is your C string sounding a little weak?

Here’s a tip to help beginning cellists pull a fuller, richer sound on the C string.

There are really two parts to the equation.

First, we need to get the string vibrating widely, which means gripping the string with the hair of the bow and then releasing the string with an impulse from the bow hand.

Then, we have to continue bowing with the appropriate speed and weight to keep the string vibrating. Too little weight and the string will vibrate less and the sound will become superficial, too much weight and the tone will sound choked.

Experiment to find the ideal weight and speed!

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