Like any musical instrument, mastering the cello requires a ton of practice.
But thanks to modern-day technology, attending lessons physically isn’t the only way to gain these skills. Whether you’re an aspiring cellist or a complete novice, you can learn how to play cello online.
Here’s a list of the best online cello lessons available. This way, you can learn to play right from the comfort of your home. Bonus: a few of these cello courses are free!
10 Best Cello Lessons Available Online
1. ArtistWorks
Looking for a platform that offers close to a real life experience for learning cello? If you are, then you can’t go wrong with ArtistWorks.
So just how does this education website work? Well, once you access the site, simply go to the Courses menu section and choose the instrument you’re interested in learning.
Although ArtistWorks is focused on training the guitar - offering over 10 guitar courses - it trains on other instruments as well, including the cello. The whole cello course is taught by Mike Block, a respectable and experienced cellist and composer.
This cello education site has two specific features that make it stand out. First off, it gives you access to a community of students and educators, whom you can reach out to at any time.
Secondly, you get feedback on how you’re progressing in your cello-learning journey. You can record a video of yourself playing a piece and send it to your music instructor. After submitting, your instructor reviews it, then sends you a video containing very helpful feedback. Impressive right?
2. Olga Redkina
There’s no better way to learn cello than from a world-famous cellist and composer. Olga Redkina has been playing the instrument for years; thus, she’s mastered what it takes to become a professional cellist.
One of the biggest highlights of her course is the “flipped classroom” model that she uses to train. Olga recognizes that the old-fashioned way - where students are lectured for hours then sent home to work on assignments - isn’t very effective.
So instead, she trains her students using pre-recorded lectures. This means that you can log in to the website at any time and watch the 400+ pre-recorded lessons at your own pace.
Another thing that makes Redkina’s online cello lessons so attractive entails the flexible payment plans. You have the freedom to pay monthly, yearly or quarterly depending on what your budget allows.
3. Cello Academy
Want to learn the cello but don’t have the money to hire a tutor? Cello Academy gives you an opportunity to access their free online cello lessons! Essentially, the only thing you’ll need is a stable internet connection and you can learn to play your favorite instrument.
The course is divided into four sections as follows:
- Beginners Course
- Cello Technique
- Play with Piano
- Cello Repertoire
Under each lesson, you’ll find several chapters with specific learning objectives. Each lesson is about 15 minutes long, and provides detailed information to help you master the right playing techniques.
And if you prefer private online lessons, they can also be arranged. The private lessons are taught by Hans Zentgraf, another prominent cello expert. Just navigate to the contact us section and make an inquiry.
4. Master the Cello
This course allows students to learn how to play cello using the legendary Dounis method.
Constantine Dounis was an influential string instrument teacher from the 20th century. His training method was and still is centered around mastering the correct ergonomics and developing flexibility when playing.
These are the core principles upon which this course is founded. The video tutorials are split into two main chapters:
- 10 Essential Bow Exercises
- The Perfect Bow Hold
The lessons are created and delivered by renowned New York instructor, Byron Duckwall. Boasting 30 years of experience under his belt, this individual has become an expert in training cello and violin.
One thing you’ll like about this course is the fact that it’s taught using different media. Whether you prefer to learn through zoom, read a cello book or watch videos, Master the Cello has got it all.
5. Cellobello
Cellobello is another one of the best free cello lessons. This platform uses a slightly different approach for training cello.
The conventional approach is to have one or two teachers who teach everything. But in this case, you get to choose the cellist you wish to learn from depending on your needs.
For instance, are you looking to learn more about body awareness? Well, there’s a chapter dedicated to this, with a variety of cello instructors offering lessons related to this topic. Generally, the cello training course is divided into the following categories:
- Right hand
- Left hand
- Body awareness
- Performance
- Master classes
- Repertoire
- Interviews
- For teachers
One of the biggest selling points of this platform is the array of resources it offers. In addition to learning the cello, you can also participate in workshops and competitions.
This lets you gauge your performance against other players and identify areas that need improvement. You can also apply to jobs and attend interviews with professional cellists.
6. Musika
If you’re looking to play cello online, one other platform you should consider is Musika.
One thing that I love about Musika is that it connects you to cello instructors who specialize in the areas that you’re looking to learn.
To get started, you’ll need to answer a set of questions first. These questions make it easier for the administrators to connect you with the most suitable teachers.
Once they find you an instructor, you’ll be given access to a risk-free trial. Simply, schedule a lesson where you’ll get to meet your cello teacher.
If you’re satisfied with how the lesson goes, then you can book more lessons. But if you wish to change your trainer, Musika can recommend other instructors at no extra cost.
The flexibility that Musika offers is another feature that makes it stand out. Once matched with an instructor, you can choose to have the sessions weekly, biweekly or any other schedule that works for you and your instructor.
7. Natasha Jaffe
Want to learn from one of the best cellists in the world? If so, all you have to do is sign up for Natasha’s private cello lessons.
What’s intriguing about her cello course is the fact that it emphasizes classical music. This serves as a great starting point given it’s the foundation for the majority of other music styles.
In fact, Jaffe also trains her students in an array of improvisational skills. This makes it easier to adapt and incorporate the cello techniques that you learn in other genres. To add to this, you can sign up for her private in-person classes if you live within Berlin.
Whichever approach that you use, you’ll be able to learn cello in your preferred language.
This is because Jaffe offers her course in five different languages: German, English, Spanish, French and Portuguese. You’ll also have the freedom to choose a subscription that meets your budgetary needs.
8. Cello Online
If you’re not ready to make a financial commitment just yet, Cello Online is another learning platform that’s available for free.
However, this one uses an entirely different approach that might not work for everyone. Rather than providing video tutorials or live classes, this one gives you access to a library of texts. Put simply; most of the information you’ll find here is text-based.
So if you’re more of a visual or practical learner, this style of training might not interest you. The good news is that Cello Online covers all the basics. So by the time you get to the final chapter, you’ll have learned a great deal of information. The chapters covered are:
- Cello position - teaches you how to hold your cello and bow (also see our article on how to hold a cello bow)
- Cello fingering - informs you how to position each of your fingers when playing
- Cello technique - details different bow strokes
- Study cello - gives you tips for distance learning
- Cello set-up - teaches you how to correctly set up your instrument
- Music theory - this chapter takes you on the journey of reading music
9. Cello Dreaming
Looking for the best cello lessons online? Then you should check out Cello Dreaming. It’s founded and operated by Louise King, a skilled cellist with years of experience.
Oftentimes, she teaches her students in-person from her studio in Australia. But recently, she’s begun offering online lessons via Skype. This gives you a chance to learn from an expert regardless of where you are.
You’ll be able to pick from three subscription rates, which currently go for $45, $70 and $90. The prices vary depending on the length of each session. So the longer the lesson, the higher its price. Once you make a payment, email them the receipt, and you’ll be allowed to book a lesson.
10. Lessonface
One other platform that’s great for learning cello is Lessonface. The learning approach used here is fairly similar to Musika’s, with the only difference that Lessonface offers live lessons.
This platform connects you to the most suitable cello teachers depending on your skill level. This happens in one of two ways.
One, you can browse through the list of cello experts available and pick one you prefer. Or, Lessonface can choose one for you. The majority of instructors include a demo of their teaching style in their profile. So you’ll have a chance to assess what they’re offering before signing up for anything.
Once you’ve found your match, all that’s left is to download Zoom on your computer, and start learning.
One other thing I like about Lessonface is its 24-hour cancellation policy. If you get caught up in something and aren’t available to attend a live lesson, you can cancel or reschedule 24 hours before it starts.
Do you prefer to learn in a group? If so, Lessonface has got that covered as well. They even host open mics and recitals for the Lessonface community. These events are completely free to attend for all teachers, students and prospective learners.
Benefits of Learning Cello Online
Are there any benefits of learning cello online? Yes, there are. The traditional method is to attend classes physically and get trained by a cello instructor.
But based on my research, more students are resorting to online classes and for good reasons. Here are some of the perks you’ll gain from the best online cello lessons:
Convenience
The greatest advantage you’ll get is convenience. You can learn from the comfort of your home, which saves you from having to commute every other day.
Similarly, you can schedule the cello lessons at your preferred time. This means that you’re not restricted to attending lessons at specific times. This flexibility in scheduling gives you an opportunity to learn when you’re most productive.
While convenient, it’s important to set boundaries at home. Set aside a small space that will be completely free from distractions and devoted to playing cello. Doing this improves your concentration levels, allowing you to get the most out of lessons.
Access to Cello Professionals
Learning online gives you access to world-renowned cello teachers, who would otherwise be out of your reach. You’ll have the opportunity to be trained by teachers living in different cities, states and countries.
The best thing is that a number of cello websites offer live lessons, offering you personalized instructions. So if you’re struggling in a specific area, the instructor can tailor lessons focused on improving that sector.
Similarly, they’ll be able to offer lessons that suit your skill level. For instance, if you’ve already mastered the basics, then your instructor can offer lessons that focus on getting you to intermediate level.
Ease of Learning
One common misconception in the music world is that learning to play cello online is difficult. But with the invention of video conference systems like Zoom and Google Hangouts, learning online has never been easier.
There are two key features that simplify this process:
- Screen sharing
- Ability to record your lessons
Screen sharing
This feature lets your instructor share their screen directly with you as the lesson progresses. Thanks to this, it’s much easier to share sheet music, video, exercise or digital books. Plus, it helps you understand the concepts that you’re being taught better.
Recording lessons
Another indispensable feature is the ability to record lessons as you learn. So when you want to practice by yourself later on, there are lessons that you can reference to for guidance. Examples of resourceful lessons that you should consider recording are:
- Playing patterns
- Explanations of musical terminology
- Chord progression
- Ideas for melodies
Things to Consider When Choosing Online Cello Lessons
There are thousands of cello lessons available online. So how do you know which one to choose? Well, here’s a list of points that you should take into account:
Goals
One thing that a lot of students forget to consider is the end goal. It can be a bit difficult to figure out the specific goals you hope to achieve before meeting your cello instructor.
However, it’s also hard to know which course is right for you if you don’t have any expectations. Here’s a list of questions that can help you realize your learning goals:
- Would you like to learn a specific music style, such as classical cello music?
- Are you looking to play the instrument as a hobby?
- Would you like to learn how to play by ear or only read music notations?
Getting answers to these questions gives you a great place to start when looking for online cello courses.
Experience
When you begin your search, you’ll quickly realize that there are hundreds of cello instructors offering lessons.
However, these teachers don’t all have the same experience. While some instructors have been playing and teaching the instrument for a decade (or more), others only have a few years of experience.
It’s crucial that you take this into consideration, especially if you’re serious about learning to play cello. Remember, the lessons you sign up for are a financial investment. So ensure that you’re getting value for your money by hiring an experienced or trained cello instructor.
Learning Approach
If you’re ready to learn cello online, then there are only two modes of learning available. You can learn either through pre-recorded lectures or attend online lessons live. Here’s a quick look at each approach:
Pre-recorded lessons
Most cello courses available online are delivered using this approach. They involve a series of pre-recorded lessons combined with audio and printable resources. So instead of attending live online lessons, you use finished products to learn your instrument.
Such courses are almost always video-based. Most tutors who run these programs also offer PDFs, sheet music and audio files.
The biggest benefit of using this approach is that it’s flexible. You can learn at your preferred time and pace.
Live online cello lessons
For individuals who prefer an interactive learning approach, then live cello lessons are the way to go.
This borrows from the traditional approach of learning. Put simply; it involves a cello expert delivering their lesson through a video conference software such as Zoom or Skype. You’re required to log in for the lesson at a specific time. Similarly, the duration of the lesson is determined ahead of time. This can be an inconvenience if you’re not readily available to attend the online lessons.
Skill Level
Another factor you’ll want to account for when choosing online cello courses is your individual skill set. Are you starting from scratch? Or, do you have some experience playing the cello?
This will determine the kind of lessons you should sign up for. For the novice, a beginner cello course is the best whereas those with experience should look for intermediate lessons.
Location
This isn’t a very fundamental factor as the cello lessons will take place online.
However, it’s something that you should think about if you’re looking to attend live classes. Unlike pre-recorded lessons, such courses are meant to take place at specific times, regardless of where you live.
If you prefer this model, you might want to look for online lessons offered by cello experts within your region. Otherwise, the difference in time zones can cause problems.
Let’s say that you live in Australia and are interested in a course taught by a cellist based in Canada. Your teacher might only be available during the day based on their timezone. Unfortunately for you, this means having to attend the lessons in the wee hours of the night.
Cost
Don’t forget to check the cost of the lesson (for the paid options) as well. Online cello courses vary widely in terms of prices. While some cost as low as $9 per month, others cost several hundreds of dollars.
The good news is that most platforms offer flexible payment options. You can choose to pay for each session, monthly, quarterly or annually. So what’s the catch? Well, long-term courses cost more upfront but they save you money in the long-run.
If you prefer learning cello over a prolonged period, consider courses offering one-off payments. You'll only have to pay once and you’ll be given access to learning resources for as long as the lessons exist online.
If you feel uncertain about online cello lessons, then look for courses that offer free trials. This way, you can give the program a test-run before deciding to commit financially.
Wrap Up
Are you interested in the cello but don’t fancy the traditional learning approach? No need to worry as there are dozens of cello courses available online.
But before you start paying money for any subscription, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. These include your skill level, preferred mode of learning, instructor’s experience, and end goal.
Based on these, one of the best online cello lessons is the ArtistWorks Course taught by Mike Block. This is a highly-versatile platform offering courses to musicians of all kinds and learning levels.
However, what truly sets it apart is its prompt feedback system. Once you’re confident in what you’ve learned, you can record a practice session, send it to your instructor and wait for feedback. This level of communication and interaction is something you won’t find on other platforms.
