For Subscribers

Technique: Playing in the high register of the cello

2025-02-28T09:54:00

2024_11_GuyJohnston2024__c_FrancesMarshall5954 copy

Guy Johnston offers tips and exercises to improve playing in the cello’s high register

High-register playing on the cello is often thought of as difficult and uncomfortable, presenting an obstacle for young cellists in the learning journey. Against this backdrop it isn’t surprising perhaps that some students find it rather daunting to play in the higher positions. This perceived truth has a tendency to linger even once students are much more experienced. It doesn’t help the situation that as cellists move into the higher register their hand is compelled to move further away from the body, unlike on the violin, where the hand closes in for the higher-register feel and look reassuringly nurturing…

Already subscribed? Please sign in

Subscribe to continue reading…

We’re delighted that you are enjoying our website. For a limited period, you can try an online subscription to The Strad completely free of charge.

  • Free 7-day trial

    Not sure about subscribing? Sign up now to read this article in full and you’ll also receive unlimited access to premium online content, including the digital edition and online archive for 7 days.

    Free trial

    No strings attached – we won’t ask for your card details

  • Subscribe 

    No more paywalls. To enjoy the best in-depth features and analysis from The Strad’s latest and past issues, upgrade to a subscription now. You’ll also enjoy regular issues and special supplements* and access to an online archive of issues back to 2010.

    Subscribe

 

* Issues and supplements are available as both print and digital editions. Online subscribers will only receive access to the digital versions.