What is the standard tuning for a cello?

How to Tune a Cello. The cello has four strings which are tuned in perfect fifths. The notes are: C, G, D, and A and ascend in order of pitch—with C being the lowest note and A the highest. Cellos are tuned by turning the pegs that the strings are wrapped around.

What interval is the cello tuned to?

The cello has four strings tuned in perfect fifth intervals: the A-string (the highest sounding), D-string, G-string, and C-string (the lowest sounding).

How do you stop cello pegs from slipping?

If your pegs are too loose and keep slipping, try pushing the peg in securely while turning the peg firmly. If this doesn’t work, some cellists use either peg compound or another product called peg drops to stop pegs from slipping (peg drops, also known as peg grip are used solely for slipping pegs).

Do cellos have fine tuners?

The cello has four strings which are tuned in perfect fifths, similar to the violin. The four tuning pegs located on the scroll and the four fine tuners located on the tailpiece of the cello are used to tighten and loosen the corresponding strings.

Do orchestras play in equal temperament?

The violin, viola, and cello are tuned to beatless just perfect fifths and ensembles such as string quartets and orchestras tend to play in fifths based Pythagorean tuning or to compensate and play in equal temperament, such as when playing with other instruments such as the piano.

Do you tune a cello?

Basically, you can approach tuning your cello according to how many strings need tuned. Minor adjustments can be made using the fine tuners, but if the strings are really off pitch, you’ll need to use both the pegs and the tuners. If more than two strings need tuned, use the sequence: C, G, D, A.

Is it easy to tune a cello?

The good news, however, is that tuning a cello is a relatively easy and straightforward adventure. Each of the four strings – A, D, G, and C in ascending order – are tuned in perfect fifths. When you actually start tuning, begin with the lowest string – A – and work your way up each of the higher strings.

Why are my cello pegs slipping?

Low Humidity or Dry Conditions This is the most common cause for slipping pegs. Wooden pegs go through many changes—high humidity can cause them to swell and stick in place, and low humidity can cause them to shrink and lose their grip in the pegbox.

Why does my cello not stay in tune?

When a peg slips or sticks, tuning (and staying in tune) can be difficult. If your pegs keep slipping or sticking, remove the peg and apply a specialized compound to the shiny parts of the removed peg. If your peg no longer fits in the peg box, bring your cello to a luthier to find out if the peg needs replacing.