Challenges for Taking Cello Lessons for Adult Beginners

Learning the cello as an adult has its own specific challenges. There is nothing that can be overcome, but it still means a lot more dedication and effort to achieve the same results that a younger student would probably achieve as a matter of course. There are rewards to taking cello lessons as an adult as well, so it’s not all bleak.

Physically demanding

The first challenge is that which can impede youngsters as well. The cell is a large and heavy instrument and to play it effectively, you must be able to handle it properly. It is an instrument which requires the player to fit perfectly. The biggest size of 4/4 is also known as the ‘adult size’ but in reality, it does not suit all adults. Shorter adults might have to go for a smaller size, and adults with larger hands might even opt for a larger size, which are rare, but exist nevertheless. Even with the right sized instrument, it is still a taxing affair to play. Conditions that lead to early fatigue or chronic pain related diseases can also lead to problems. The good news is that you can still find ways to enjoy and learn the cello by making minor adjustments and having a teacher who will help you with the correct posture and not make the learning an imposition.

Devoting time

Children or adult students can usually fit in more activities even if they are extremely busy. Learning is a matter of course to them. But as you enter the world of jobs and deadlines, it becomes more and more difficult to make time for your hobbies, especially those as demanding as learning the cello. With children, this becomes more difficult. This does not mean that you have to set aside your dream of learning the cello. You just have to be more dedicated and disciplined and set aside some time on a regular basis to practice.

Slower to learn

Adults can find it more difficult to learn the cello for several reasons, including the fact that they might not be able to devote as much time to it as they could have as children. Adults who want to learn the cello generally also have a greater understanding of music and quickly lose interest in basic pieces. In addition, being able to understand that they don’t sound as good as they want to be is discouraging. All these factors add up to put you off from continuing, so it is up to you to find the motivation and the interest to sustain you. Good cello teachers can help you with this.

Prohibitive cost

Taking up any instrument is expensive, but the cost of cello is slightly above-average. The instrument itself is expensive. Even if you choose to purchase a used cello, which is not really advisable, the cost of repairs and tuning can rack up the expenses and make it more expensive than a new one. Cello lessons are not cheap if you want a good teacher either. In addition, there is the cost of the music books, maintenance expenses, group activities with your fellow students, etc. Every step costs money and it can all add up to a large amount.

Overall, learning the cello as an adult has its very specific challenges but they are nothing that cannot be met with a little discipline, planning and knowledge. Make sure you have all information in hand before you start cello tutorials.