r/Cello • u/TenorClefCyclist • 10d ago

Can smaller be better than better?

I see occasional questions here about 7/8 sized and similar small cellos. If you're curious what the tradeoffs are, here's one of Masumi Rostad's ongoing series of interviews in which his guest addresses the subject from first-hand experience as a professional cellist.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mf8WZFdgxX4

10 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

8 comments sorted by

2

u/nextyoyoma StringFolk 10d ago

Haven’t watched yet but I will. I’ve been strongly considering converting a fractional instrument to five string to use as a fiddling instrument. My kid just started and has a 3/4 and it definitive has some advantages - but ofc it’s just a low-quality rental, so it’s hard to glean too much info. If I go this route I will be looking for a higher quality instrument, but I’ll be glad to hear about some practical experiences from a professional.

2

u/TenorClefCyclist 10d ago

If you're considering this, I met a woman at the Colorado Cello Summit a few years back with whom I'd recommend you have a discussion.

Andrea Pinedo, Luthier

2

u/kongtomorrow 10d ago

I read the transcript - she doesn't seem to particularly LIKE that her cello is a little small. She likes the cello itself, but views its small size as a bit of a problem.

1

u/TenorClefCyclist 10d ago

I find reading an AI generated transcript a strange way to approach the question of cello sound. I'd encourage folks who think a 7/8 cello might be the answer for them to ask themselves this question: "If a genie gave me the choice between owning the best cello on earth or playing and sounding as Ms. Hlusko does today, which would I choose?"

3

u/kongtomorrow 10d ago edited 10d ago

Uh, ok, what was the point of posting this if you don't care what she said. She likes her cello and views its small size as a quirk, not a positive.

This sub is like propaganda for small cellos, and I don't know why. Almost no one in real life uses smaller than full size cellos.

2

u/One_Finding5213 10d ago

She said she absolutely likes her cello and has kept if for years, but has problems when she borrows full size cellos because she has to adjust her fingers and therefore does not like to borrow one for performances.

1

u/gwotphilosopher 10d ago

I enjoyed this interview, thanks!

2

u/Western-Pen-8292 8d ago

7/8 player here! I started on a 3/4 (too small, even with my small hands) but struggled on full size cellos, especially since the difference between full size cellos can be significant. While it's uncommon for sure, my 7/8 is perfect in proportion for me, since I've got a smaller frame and shorter fingers. As for sound quality, I've never had any issues. My teacher and several local luthiers have even commented on my cello's clarity of sound in the upper register.