Short string-length cello 2001 based on Peter Guarneri
When I developed this cello model, I was becoming aware that a number of
players found a full-size cello too big, but for a number of reasons
didn't want to go to something as small as a seven-eighths size. So
this was an attempt to make something that would look just like a
full-size cello but be a lot easier to play. The body length is a
little smaller than a Stradivari model cello, and the upper bouts
are well-rounded to make it easy to reach high positions. I've kept
the model reasonably wide in the C bouts to help give it warmth and
richness of sound. The string length is 20mm shorter than that of a
standard full-size cello so it's an easy stretch for the left hand.
The model I used is adapted from a lovely cello of Peter Guarneri of Venice. It's carefully chosen to be easy to play but still has the wood where it's needed to be acoustically successful. It's a pretty model with graceful f-holes and a rounded, flowing head.
The sound quality is powerful and warm, and the instrument projects well.
I've made this model twice and both instruments were sold to talented young players at Chetham's School of Music, Manchester.
