BBC HomeExplore the BBC


Accessibility help
Text only
BBC Homepage
BBC Music
Guide To The Orchestra

Radio 3

Classical Music

Guide to the Orchestra

Play!


BBC Performing Groups Singers National Orchestra of Wales Scottish Symphony Orchestra Philharmonic Concert Orchestra Symphony Orchestra
BBC Proms
Young Musician of the Year

Contact Us

Like this page?
Send it to a friend!

 
  
cello title image

The cello looks like a violin – but bigger.

You couldn’t hold this under your chin! Instead, it rests on a spike which sticks into the floor and is held between the players legs and played with a bow.

Because its body is bigger and its strings longer than the other instruments, the sound it makes is much deeper.
cello
Listen to the Cello
listen toInstrument Range
listen toSpecial Effects
listen toHear it in action
 

  
  Gill Copp  Meet the Orchestra!
Gilll Copp plays the Cello with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. Read about her below.
  
  
Gill Copp, Cello

How old were you when you first started playing?
I was ten.
Why did you choose this instrument?
My mum wanted me to take up the violin but there were none left as school! So I took up the cello, but my mum wasn't very pleased.
Do you play any other instruments?
I also play the piano.
What do you like most about playing in an orchestra?
I love the 'big sound' of the orchestra especially when all the brass are playing at full tilt. I also love all the zippy fiddly bits!
Do you play any other kind of music?
I play in smaller groups with other members of the orchestra.
Do you have any other hobbies?
I play badminton and work in my 'wee garden'. I also play with Tan, my pet spaniel.
What would you have been if you weren't a musician?
I would have learned French and gone to live in France!
  
      
  
  
All pictures are copyrighted - picture credits
Woodwind   Brass  
 
 
Strings Percussion
 
 
Keyboards Conductor
LEARN AN INSTRUMENT
Which instrument, which age, finding teachers, buying guide and the perils of practice
 
 





About the BBC | Help | Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookies Policy