Should I learn to play the violin or the cello?

Question

I've decided to learn a second instrument and have settled on a string instrument. I love both the violin and the cello, but can't decide which one. The cello is my bigger favorite, since I love the sound it produces. Now I've played flute for over 8 years, so I don't know if that musical knowledge will effect my learning either instrument. What are the pros and cons of the violin and cello? Preferences?

Answer 1

I prefer the violin, and would recommend it to you, over the cello.

They're both great instruments; don't get me wrong. Both are difficult, though. Just the same, amazing once you get used to them, and can really play them well.

The cello, however, has many drawbacks. First of all, is expense. You'd be paying more than you would with a violin for the cello itself, or the rental price, the bow, the accessories, and most likely the music, as well.

Also, cello music is harder to come by than violin music, when you're in search of a specific song or composer. As violin is essentially a more popular instrument, you'd have an easier time coming across the music you like, and you'll also find that there are more books and other manuscripts in regards to playing, which can help very much in your success.

In addition, I hate the bulkiness of the cello. I've had to transport them before, and they're difficult to manouver. You're more likely to have problems with upkeep and damage with a cello, than you are with a violin. If it is in fact damaged at some point, it will also be more difficult to repair, or to find someone to repair it.

Most strings teachers specialize in violin, and therefore it's more likely that you'll have trouble finding a high quality teacher, if you play the cello. Once you become skilled, finding a career or being given a scholarship to / being accepted into a good school, are easier if you play the violin, as I've seen.

However, with the cello, there's positive point that stands out; you will have less competition in orchestras, if you ever decide to play in one. Just the same, I myself consider that a drawback; I'd rather work hard for my success, than have it come easy.

From what I know, I believe that the scale of the flute is closer to violin, which might help you.

I'd like to point out, though, you can always play both. Or, you can try one, and see if you like it; the place you rent or buy an instrument from will most likely allow you to try the instruments out, before making a decision. And if you rent, you can usually switch instruments easily, if you choose to do so. To some extent, it's simply personal preference; whatever you enjoy more. I say, try them both out. See what you like, and what you don't.

Good luck :]

Answer 2

I realize this question was asked quite awhile ago, but I figured I'd still give my two cents in the topic. I have played the cello for about 5 years now and I am so glad my mom forced me to play it:) The cello has such a gorgeous range, that to me, you can't get with the violin, which is all mainly upper register. There's nothing really like those low notes that you can hit on a cello. Also, at some points the violin can get to be very squeaky when learning a new high part to a song. Another sort of random thing that I love about the cello, is that when you play the very low notes, or when you use vibrato, you can feel the vibrations through your body. You can't get that with any other instrument. Although, the violin is a beautiful instrument too. You couldn't really go wrong with either. (Btw if anyone else still can't decide, check out 2CELLOS on youtube!! They are amazing!)

Answer 3

well they're in the same family so it dosen't matter which one you chose to play because if you ever decide you wish to play the other later on in life all you have to do is ajust the spacing and maybe learn a few more cords depending on which one you chose first trust me but either way it will be hard to find teachers especially if you have a budget. Both are hard to learn but once you do you will have fun with it. I personally chose the violin and through studing the violin's history is where i found out about the cello so I know the cello will be hard because the violin is hard. but even though the violin is hard i look foward to practicing it each and every day so my suggestion is think of these facts I have told you and think about which one is the one that you feel you can wake up every morning and look foward to practing even if it's not great. some thing theat helped me chose between piano and violin is this thought process and listening to music with each instrament playing by its self or with another insrament that is not the other one that im think of starting and thats how a picked the violin. Im possitive you will pick the right insrament just trust your own judgement and don't let anyone choose for you.

Answer 4

Violin

Answer 5

I'd say cello, because you already play the flute, your ear may appreciate you playing something in a different range. The down side is that it's harder to lug around and is generally more stylistically limited, (with some notable exceptions).

Answer 6

Cello is so much more beautiful and you can find a violinist anywhere. If you play the cello you will be sought after to accompany violinists

Answer 7

Hey i play both instruments. Yes the cello has a very beutiful sound but the violin is a lot better to play. The songs are faster and it sounds better. The violin usually has the melody to all of the songs so people know what you are playing. Plus a violin is a lot easier to carry around with you.

Answer 8

If you already play flute then you're accustomed to reading treble clef. Sheet music for violin also uses treble clef, so there's nothing new to learn there.

Fiddle is wonderful, especially if you don't restrict yourself to classical music. There's a whole world of traditional dance music from all over the world played on the fiddle, not to mention country, bluegrass, rock, jazz.........

Answer 9

Violin! I've always wanted to play the violin, I have more of a prefer to the sound of a violin rather than a cello. I find that a violin is more emotive, where as a cello is more mellow. (stupid way of putting it, can't think of much better). As for the pros and cons of actually learning them, I can't give you much help there I'm afraid :( Choose the cello, as you prefer it more ;)

Answer 10

Really the two differences are Sound and Size. Are you willing to give housespace to such a Large instrument as a cello? Are you willing to carry it around? A violin is much more portable and affordable until you go for a really "good" instrument. And instructors--do you know a good one for either?