Cello Placement

[kestra_2]

Hi, I am just wondering if there are any women cellist who might be able to help me with placement of the cello. I am a large busted woman and my cello teacher is a guy, so he is unsure about how the cello should be place with regards to my chest. I feel like if I place it above then the cello is too tilted and I am stretching my arms, below is awkward too. I am also having a hard time with holding the bow, I think that the cello placement is a cause. So if anyone can give me advice on how to place it, how many pegs should be showing at the bottom(right now I am at 11) or let me know of female cellist who may be able to help me. Thanks

[PicklePepperPiper]

I am a female cellist, and place the cello below the breasts, but my beginning teacher placed hers above, telling me in the long run it's a lot more comfortable. Having said that, I haven't come across any issues with having the cello below, and this has actually aided my technique, especially for relaxation in the shoulders, simply being able to reach around the cello, etc.

But if truth be told, I don't have particularly large breasts, haven't had children, or anything that could add additional sensitivity. I normally hesitate to suggest this, but perhaps it is a matter of you finding what is comfortable for yourself. Just ensure that whatever option you take, you aren't having to strain more than necessary to simply play the cello - do a few quick tests, such as placing the left hand in the neck, then right at the fingerboard. Play the bow from heel to tip on every string. The cello shouldn't be in the way, it should just be there.

-PPP

[Minna]

I´m also a female cellist and as PPP also I place my cello below my chest. I´m not big breasted and I´m also quite short (158cm) and still cello is in best position when it is below my chest. I hope you´ll find the best position which fits for you. Try all possible positions for cello and as PPP said play all strings with full bow. I´ve also played cello above my chest but then it felt like my hands were in wrong position. You have to just try and I´m sure you´ll find the best position for you. I don´t think there is only one right position.

And last, sorry my awful english. This is not my native language.

[giggleycraft]

Here's a pic if it's helpful. Mine also sits just below the breasts.



* edit...ignore the terrible bow hold in the photo...not sure what was going on there