Cellos for Intermediate Players
When to upgrade to a better instrument is a complicated question. Often, when the student begins lessons with his or her first private teacher, it is time to step up to a higher quality instrument. Others reasonably choose instruments from this level for a beginning player. One thing is for sure- In the moderate price ranges, a little extra investment goes a long way to improve the playability and quality of tone over an entry level product. Pick a price point that is comfortable for you, and consider upgrading in a year or two. Our trade-in policy gives you the flexibility to upgrade the instrument freely, without losing value on your initial investment.
We stock a large selection, but the best way to shop is to contact us by email and let us know a little about which models seem appealing to you in terms of the size, price range, tone, and appearance. We can use your preferences to make a specific recommendation of instrument our outfit which is in stock. We also offer a 7 day in-home trial. So, please do not hesitate to contact us. There are no stupid questions. We love email.
**PLEASE NOTE**: Not every item on this page is in stock at all times. Some models we offer by special order only. Others are on back order with the vendor. Please email us to check availability of any product shown here.
Segue Concertino Plus
Segue is our private label brand for high-value instruments. The Concertino Plus model is produced for us by Eastman and demonstrate our commitment to quality tonewood and expert hand-craftsmanship. Each instrument is entirely hand-crafted with well-seasoned, select tonewoods and an attractive and durable hand-applied translucent amber varnish.
Eastman Model 405 "Appassionato Antique"
The varnish used on the model 405 instruments emulates the exceptional varnishes from a century ago where a small number of master workshops in Markneukirchen, Germany distinguished themselves by developing some of the best varnishes of the modern era.
Eastman Model 605 "Conservatory"
This model combines all the benefits of master luthiers' plate tuning techniques with the special German-style multi-layer shaded spirit varnish. The result is a modestly priced master instrument with outstanding projection, tone color, and playability. The tonewoods are beautifully flamed European maple and premium spruce, enhanced by the luminous hand-applied varnish.
Dunov 402 "Superior"
Ivan Dunov Superior model 402 instruments are similar to the Ivan Dunov model 401 line, but with the addition of more highly select tonewoods and more attention to graduations that enhance performance for a player that has skill to draw out a desired tone..
Albert Nebel
Albert Nebel celli provide famous quality at a modest price. These instruments are crafted from aged European tone woods. Each cello is hand carved and varnished in the Eastman Strings workshop.
Josef Regh
Josef H Regh cellos are handcrafted of select German tonewoods, producing clear even tone. This cello features red-brown hand applied antique style multi-layer spirit varnish, ebony fingerboard and fittings.
Rudolf Doetsch
Rudoulf Doetsch instruments are hand crafted by master luthiers and are hailed by teachers and performers as some of America's best German tonewood instruments. They feature a highly select spruce top with maple back, sides and scrolls, and a hand applied antique-style, multi-layer spirit varnish. The result is an instrument that is professional in both appearance and sound.
Wilhelm Klier
The Wilhelm Klier instruments, like the Rudoulf Doetsch model, are crafted using a time-honored workshop-method tradition. These high-end instruments are made of older wood to achieve a warmer sound. They are highly flamed and varnished with a deep coloration to give a classic, old-fashioned look. The sound is described as rounder than that of a new instrument, almost as if it had already been broken in. These instruments are an excellent upgrade for the advanced musician.
Pietro Lombardi
The Pietro Lombardi is made with a beautifully flamed maple back and a highly select spruce top. The sophisticated amber colored spirit varnish of the Lombardi is reminiscent of Italian makers.
Jean-Pierre Lupot
The Jean-Pierre Lupot is made with a well flamed maple back and a select spruce top. The elegantly antiqued spirit varnish has reddish pigment with deep red wine hues.
Snow Model 200
Also known as Snow 200. This is the popular, entry-model from this workshop. Snow is a small workshop by Chinese standards, and is also a family-run business. We like the round, warm tone balance that these instruments offer, because they represent a nice alternative to many other Cellos, which are engineered to be bright and sharply focused. This model features very clean carving, subtle antiquing, and an easy response, especially in the low range.
Core Symphony SM30
Take the stage confidently with the Core Symphony model. Built for performance, it has style, power, and the versatility required for orchestral, solo, and chamber music, even contemporary genres. This model features a well-seasoned spruce top and a one-piece maple back aged at least 7 years! Combined with experienced craftsmanship, the resulting tonal qualities are well-balanced, with both clarity and warmth, refinement and power. From the overture to the final encore, the Core Symphony gives an amazing performance. Concert level cello with flamed maple back aged at least 7 years, and well-seasoned spruce top.
Core Dragon DR10
An accessible introduction to the Dragon line, this affordable yet capable instrument possesses all the qualities needed to make a fine performance level instrument: medium-dark tone, fast response and a clear, even voice throughout. The appearance has been a hit with its moderate flaming, mildly antiqued varnish, with a medium brown to red-brown color of medium luster giving it a naturally-worn patina.
Core Dragon DR20
A very nice combination of sweetness and power; responsive at all dynamic levels - a great value in performance-level cellos. The maple has more pronounced flaming, and prepared with a golden ground, the amber-brown varnish is gently antiqued for an elegant appearance.
Core Dragon DR30
For even more dedicated players, the very sweet, dark tone is balanced with power and clarity throughout all registers. Using well-flamed maple and finely grained spruce, the tonewoods are crafted with extra time and effort to produce a wider tonal and dynamic range. The varnish is mildly antiqued warm amber color of medium luster.
Core Dragon DR50
The ultimate Dragon, the bold tone and soloistic projection will make a lasting impression for both the performer and the audience. Beautifully-figured maple, the choicest spruce, and Dragon's finest luthiers combine to create a warm yet brilliantly rich tonal palette with depth and plenty of carrying power. The varnish is tastefully antiqued amber color over a strikingly transparent golden ground.
Core Select A series of conscientious copies of rare Italian instruments.
Core Select Model 4000 "Davidoff"
Authentic Stradivari cellos are still being played by the world's greatest cellists, and the 1712 Davidov Strad is a fine example of the B form cellos for which he is most famous. Played in concerts and recordings by Jaqueline Du Pre and then Yo-Yo Ma in the 20th century, it is named after the great 19th century Russian cellist Karl Davidov, a contemporary of Tchaikovsky. This Core Select Davidov is a beautiful reproduction crafted with special care in the archings and graduations for a brilliant, singing quality. The well-aged tonewoods are not only beautiful, but give the player a vibrant, flexible response capable of a variety of styles.
Core Select Model 4000 "Gofriller"
Matteo Gofriller (1659-1742) stands alone as the first great Venetian maker, influencing Gobetti, Montagnana, and Serafin. Gofriller's cellos have been prized by soloists like Janos Starker, Matt Haimovitz, and Anner Bylsma for their deep, rich tonal qualities. The Core Select Gofriller model features the wide bouts of some original examples, and delivers an amazing C-string that blossoms evenly throughout the middle registers to a soloistic A-string. The red-brown amber varnish, tastefully antiqued, highlights the well-figured maple and even grain spruce. Excellent response with wide dynamic range.
Core Select Model 4000 "Montagnana"
Domenico Montagnana (1686-1750) was one of the great makers of Venice, and is especially renowned for his cellos which are as distinctive in appearance as they are in their unique tonal qualities. The wider pattern, and slightly flatter archings give these cellos a deep, powerful baritone voice with a sizzling tenor range making them ideal for the world's best cellists: Yo-Yo Ma, Heinrich Schiff, Raphael Wallfisch, and Steven Isserlis among others. The Core Select Montagnana model is a fantastic sounding modern cello crafted in the pattern and spirit of Montagnana. Well-figured maple, even grain spruce, amber-red varnish, tastefully antiqued. Powerful projection, even balance, wide tonal palette.
Core Select Model 4000 "Rocca"
The narrower pattern is not quite 7/8, but with more slender shoulders than traditional models, the Core Select Rocca is very comfortable for the petite cellist, perfect for shifting into higher positions. Based on the work of Giuseppe Rocca (1807-1865), this talented maker from Turin, Italy was himself inspired by the Stradivari and Guarneri instruments of the preceding century. As the repertoire changed from the 1700s to the 1800s and musicians demanded more powerful projection, the great Cremonese models became fully appreciated during Rocca?s time for their soloistic virtues. Seasoned tonewoods and careful workmanship help give this Core Select Rocca a tenor voice that projects clearly.