The first Soundtrack Quiz!

Hello everybody! Have you seen my newest video on YouTube? It is a film music quiz. You can try it to see, how well you know the movie soundtrack themes....

What should I check when buying a cello?

“Do you have some advice on things to look for when trying out the cellos that are available?” Here is the list of things that I highly recommend to do or check: 1. If you have a teacher or a friend who is more experienced, take them with you...

My fingers turn dark after playing the cello, what does it mean?

„I’m new to cello, so maybe it is a silly question, but is it normal to have slightly dark fingers after playing?” Don’t be afraid, it is normal. Most strings, especially new ones, can turn your fingers grey as the metal winding rubs off while you’re playing. It will...

How do I make a piece sound more confident?

“My teacher told to me to play more confident. I started my lessons 5 months ago, so I’m not sure what does it mean and how do I do it?“ The key to sound more confident is using more bow to achieve fuller sound. Don’t play everything in the...

About Auri

Hello everybody! My name’s Auri Forda. I play the cello for more than 25 years. I’m a member of the Prague Film Orchestra and the band Join The Caravan. I consider myself a “semi-professional”, because my main sphere of activity is biology, more precisely ecology, zoology and animal welfare....

How normal is using a cello rock stop?

“My cello endpin slips on almost everything. I’m a beginner, so I’m not sure if it’s normal to use a rock stop?” Slippery endpin is an every cellist’s problem. 🙂 Using a rock stop or strap is absolutely normal and they’re useful for beginners and professionals alike. It’s better...

What to do with slippery pegs?

„My cello has wooden pegs that are too slippery. What can I do about it? “ If your pegs slip often while tuning, try to use peg chalk (just an ordinary school chalk is also an option). If it doesn’t help, take the cello to your luthier to check,...

How do you know when it’s time to change your rosin?

“I’m using my rosin for five years now. How do I know when it’s time to get a new one?” My rough estimate of rosin expiration is 1,5 to 2 years. I can tell for sure that your rosin won’t be too useable anymore. And how do you recognise...

How important is choice of a cello rosin?

„I started playing a half year ago, so I am still new to cello. When I bought my cello, it came with the cheapest rosin. Should I upgrade it and get an expensive one?” Honestly, the cost of rosin isn’t necessarily the crucial factor. Cheaper rosins may sound better than...