Caring for your Cello – Storage
An instrument like the cello needs a lot of care and maintenance. This does not mean that the cello is hard to maintain or care for, but merely that you have to be careful how you use it, clean it or store it. A small carelessness in handling the cello can destroy it forever. However, if you follow a few simple rules on caring for your instrument, it will serve you faithfully for a long time. We have already seen when and how to clean the cello properly here: http://cellolessonssingapore.com/caring-cello-cleaning/. This article will focus more on how to store the cello the right way.
Storing the Cello
Hard and soft cases
Whether you have regular cello music lessons or not, you need to have a safe space for storing the instrument, when it is not in use. For storage, a hard case is optimal and will provide the kind of protection required for keeping the cello free from scratches. It also minimizes the impact of any accident. However, the cello is prone to being scratched if removed too many times from a hard case. This can be prevented by being careful when removing or depositing it in the hard case.
A hard case is the best option while traveling. Always keep the cello padded during travel so that it is protected from bangs and temperature and humidity changes.
Another option is storage in a soft case, which is easier on the finish. But be careful of the zipper. A soft case cannot protect the cello against major accidents, but it will provide adequate protection against dust and humidity, both enemies of the instrument.
Cello stands
If you are regularly using your instrument on a daily basis, it would be better to use a cello stand for storage. It is best to place it upright on the stand. The stand must be located next to a wall to minimize accidental contact. When the cello is on its stand, always push the endpin inside so that no one trips over it by mistake. It can damage the cello but people can also get hurt. If you have young children or pets, the cello stand is not a good option. In this case, always pack up the instrument into a case when you are not playing the cello.
Bow, bridge, endpin, and strings
The bow is the most likely part of the instrument to be damaged due to carelessness. Always store your bow immediately after playing in your case in the bow holding pocket. Never use your bow for any purpose other than playing music. It is a delicate device which can easily get damaged or cracked before you know it.
The bridge of the cello must be exactly perpendicular to the belly of the instrument. It is necessary to keep a strict eye out for any slants so that it can be immediately corrected. To adjust the bridge, loosen the strings of the cello a little and then slide the bridge to the right position.
The endpin, which supports the weight of the cello, and is located at the bottom of the instrument, must always be pushed inside in order to prevent accidents. Endpin holders are also available, which assist in ensuring that they are kept in place and don’t pose a hazard to anyone.
As for the strings, make sure that they are loosened when you plan to store the cello away for a long time. This will ensure that the strings don’t break or damage the bridges when the temperature changes.
For more information on cello care and cello lessons, refer to www.cellolessonssingapore.com.
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