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TLDR (Why do I need the Cello?): My current instrument is a slight step above a student instrument (beginner) and I outgrew it prior to completing high school. Unfortunately I was unaware of the difference that a cello can make in your ability to adequately perform. Without the proper instrument it will be difficult or near impossible to reach my full potential as a cellist. It took my mentor less than five seconds of playing my cello to inform me that it was inadequate and I needed to upgrade if I wanted to progress in the craft. If you can help ease this financial burden through monetary means or sharing this page I would be extremely grateful!
Full Story:
Hi! My name is Ian Bell and I am a cello performance major at Utah Valley University. I have been playing the cello for the past 15 years. The cello I have been playing on is the cello that my wonderful parents purchased for me in 6th grade and was a great beginner instrument. However, after auditioning for the cello performance program at Utah Valley University I had a somewhat rude awakening. I was informed that my precious instrument will not cut it if I hope to continue to grow and advance in cello technique. After several long conversations with my new mentor Dr. Cheung Chau and exploring the local cello market I have made peace with this decision I have to make. It is sad to move on from the instrument I have played on for 15 years but ultimately I know it is for the better.
If you want to learn more about my musical history and hear me play please check out my story video!
While trying out many cellos I immediately realized the difference between my own instrument and the $7-10k instruments I was investigating. Not only was there a huge difference in tone and projection but I was more comfortable and no longer fighting the instrument to produce the type of sound I was looking for. This may seem unnecessary or unnoticeable to the average on-looker however this is a game-changer for me. I specifically remember playing a few notes on the first $7k cello I tried: I turned to my wife and told her "I have never played a real cello in my life."
After about a month of searching for an instrument that was the right fit for me I have settled on a beautiful Davidoff Strad (The instrument Yo-Yo Ma plays) copy from Peter Prier & Sons Violins. I made this choice based off of strict criteria which I used to compare my final 3 options. After tone and projection I was most worried about comfort and least worried about the actual appearance of my choice. The beauty of this instrument just happens to be an added bonus.
The Cello:
With the massive price tag for these professional grade instruments I knew that we would be spending a significant amount of money. Fun fact: this instrument is worth more than my car. When we add in the bow and a decent case we are looking at roughly $9k. We have already made an initial payment of $6k so that I can keep the instrument to practice on and continue my search for a compatible bow. We have less than a month now to complete this fundraiser and process the remaining balance of the transaction.
If you can donate I would be extremely grateful. If not it would be wonderful if you would share this GoFundMe page on social media to spread the word. If you want to donate another way just send me a message and we will work it out.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions for me :)
Ya'll are awesome and I hope you have a great day!
Full Story:
Hi! My name is Ian Bell and I am a cello performance major at Utah Valley University. I have been playing the cello for the past 15 years. The cello I have been playing on is the cello that my wonderful parents purchased for me in 6th grade and was a great beginner instrument. However, after auditioning for the cello performance program at Utah Valley University I had a somewhat rude awakening. I was informed that my precious instrument will not cut it if I hope to continue to grow and advance in cello technique. After several long conversations with my new mentor Dr. Cheung Chau and exploring the local cello market I have made peace with this decision I have to make. It is sad to move on from the instrument I have played on for 15 years but ultimately I know it is for the better.
If you want to learn more about my musical history and hear me play please check out my story video!
While trying out many cellos I immediately realized the difference between my own instrument and the $7-10k instruments I was investigating. Not only was there a huge difference in tone and projection but I was more comfortable and no longer fighting the instrument to produce the type of sound I was looking for. This may seem unnecessary or unnoticeable to the average on-looker however this is a game-changer for me. I specifically remember playing a few notes on the first $7k cello I tried: I turned to my wife and told her "I have never played a real cello in my life."
After about a month of searching for an instrument that was the right fit for me I have settled on a beautiful Davidoff Strad (The instrument Yo-Yo Ma plays) copy from Peter Prier & Sons Violins. I made this choice based off of strict criteria which I used to compare my final 3 options. After tone and projection I was most worried about comfort and least worried about the actual appearance of my choice. The beauty of this instrument just happens to be an added bonus.
The Cello:
With the massive price tag for these professional grade instruments I knew that we would be spending a significant amount of money. Fun fact: this instrument is worth more than my car. When we add in the bow and a decent case we are looking at roughly $9k. We have already made an initial payment of $6k so that I can keep the instrument to practice on and continue my search for a compatible bow. We have less than a month now to complete this fundraiser and process the remaining balance of the transaction.
If you can donate I would be extremely grateful. If not it would be wonderful if you would share this GoFundMe page on social media to spread the word. If you want to donate another way just send me a message and we will work it out.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions for me :)
Ya'll are awesome and I hope you have a great day!