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RE: Screechy A string on cello

Eileen — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 16:43:01 GMT

I'm having the same problem with new Helicore medium strings on my cello (neither new nor cheap). I replaced some VERY old strings and have to say that they were preferable to my new A and D. Both screech. Doesn't matter whether upbow or downbow, 1st, 4th, or any other position. I can tell the potential is there, but they screech. I'm afraid to play it anywhere but at home. Help!

RE: Screechy A string on cello

celloguy — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 07:31:05 GMT

I have found that less expensive modern instruments tend to have a very bright sound. Changing the strings, as you have already done, is a good first step to "warming up" the tone. If the A string is still overly bright, you may want to try a synthetic core string for the A on your cello. Synthetic core strings generally have a warmer sound than steel. Since the cello is usually a very warm sounding instrument, I normally do not recommend using synthetic core strings on cello as they often sound too dry, but we seem to be dealing with a more extreme case with your cello.

In light of the fact that you have already had some success with D'Addario Helicore, I would recommend trying the D'Addario Pro-Arte brand cello A string for a warmer sound. If that does not work, you should take the instrument to your local luthier for a possible sound post adjustment. Oftentimes, an instrument with unbalanced tone can be greatly improved with a small change in the soundpost position.

Screechy A string on cello

cellomom — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 09:04:21 GMT

I cannot stand the sound of my A string. It's not mellow. It screeches. I have had the cello only 3 months. I purchased it on ebay. It is a new very cheep cello. The original strings were very nasty sounding. Changing the strings really helped, all but the A string. I'm not new to playing but have not played in about 15 years, before that I played for about 20 years on a Roth 550 student cello. What can I do? Is there another type of string I can use, or might this be a problem with the build of the cello?