the ugly duckling

that is probably not the most endearing nickname one would give a cello....but it is probably how one might describe my cello......i didn't get the one i took out to try but another one of a better sound and of a higher value and with a real ebony finger board (apparently some of the cheaper ones are made with wood and painted black...it doesn't make any difference really, only aesthetically).....it was a difficult decision partly because of the subtle differences which an amateur like me will find difficulty distinguishing. fortunately, Andrew Shettliffe, my new cello teacher came with me to help me with the decision. he was real nice, in fact, we have only arranged to meet today to have a chat over a cup of tea and see how lessons may be arranged but not only did he ended up playing a duet with me (the last piece i did with Katrin) and giving me a lesson without charging me but he also came along with me to Stringers to help me find a better cello....coz he thinks i needed one....he himself was looking for a new cello, but of high quality.... a 'Briggs' (if i got the make right?!) i overheard him refering to Maureen Morrison at the store. these sensuously beautiful instruments can be incredibly dear....

anyways....the duckling is ugly because it is a yellowy brown instead of a more common dark or reddish brown.....and amongst the other cellos lying in the try-out room (some incredibly beautiful...with tiger-striped wood grains and some probably older than i am....), it stuck out like a sore thumb.....it really isn't one you would readily find attractive, but what really stands out is the quality of the sound it produces...although a little softer, compared to the others that are in my affordable price-range, it has a nice mellowness and the ability "to express different moods" so claimed Andrew, and a quality which i slowly appreciated after trying it out myself....and playing expressively is what i will need to learn .....not just playing like a beginner....because i'd love to play Bach properly one day....and Elgar....and Dvorak and many many more....of course they are essentially grand dreams....but it'd be nice if some of them came true one day, no?

in any case, i hope the ugly duckling will be transformed into a beautiful swan one day....one day when tiggie-me and duckie make beautiful music.....music that wouldn't annoy the neighbours! and hopefully music that will move those who happen to hear it ...... i am such a dreamer....

(i'll put up a photo soon...when i can...so watch this space!)