My cello has entered a disturbing phase of its life.
The break that I got fixed several months ago seems to be showing signs of “wearing.” The strings are too far up from the neck, so it’s very hard to press adequately for a smooth sound. The “bridge” has already been lowered and probably wouldn’t have the strength to hold the strings in place if it was shaved even one-eighth of an inch. New strings can cost $300 and up to the thousands. However, when I played my teacher’s cello with its wonderful strings, the sound was multiplied time better.
So I’m on the phone trying to find out from the cello store what they’ve learned in the five days since I took my cello there to be examined. Yes, indeed, David tells me, the place where the neck was glued in place is starting to open again. He says he can even run his fingernail in the gap that has formed and that this stress is slowly weakening the fingerboard.
My cello is finished.
I don’t have enough money to repair it right now. And if I did, I’m afraid the case will break it again. And again.
So I’m in mourning. Tomorrow maybe something better will occur.
Joyce
Tags: broken cello, cello, cello neck
