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Cellist: meaning, definitions and examples

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cellist

 

[ ˈʧɛlɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A cellist is a musician who plays the cello, a stringed instrument that is larger than a violin and has a deeper pitch. They typically perform in orchestras, chamber music ensembles, or as soloists. The cello has a rich, warm tone and is renowned for its ability to convey both melody and harmony. Cellists require a nuanced technique to navigate the instrument's range, which extends from the bass to the tenor registers. The role of a cellist is crucial in both classical and contemporary music settings.

Synonyms

cello player, string musician.

Examples of usage

  • The cellist performed a beautiful solo at the concert.
  • In the orchestra, the cellist took the lead during the adagio movement.
  • Many cellists also compose their own music.
  • The renowned cellist will be visiting our school for a workshop.

Translations

Translations of the word "cellist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 violoncelista

🇮🇳 चेलिस्ट

🇩🇪 Cellist

🇮🇩 pemain cello

🇺🇦 віолончеліст

🇵🇱 wiolonczelista

🇯🇵 チェリスト

🇫🇷 violoncelliste

🇪🇸 cellista

🇹🇷 çellist

🇰🇷 첼리스트

🇸🇦 عازف التشيللو

🇨🇿 violoncellista

🇸🇰 violončelista

🇨🇳 大提琴手

🇸🇮 violončelist

🇮🇸 sellóleikari

🇰🇿 виолончельші

🇬🇪 ჩელისტი

🇦🇿 violonçel

🇲🇽 cellista

Etymology

The term 'cellist' derives from the word 'cello,' which is a shortening of the Italian term 'violoncello.' The word 'violoncello' itself translates to 'little violone' or 'small bass,' referring to the instrument's ancestry in the violin family. The cello became distinct as an orchestral instrument during the Baroque period in the 17th century, and as it gained popularity, musicians who specialized in playing this substantial string instrument began to be identified specifically as 'cellists.' The use of the term 'cellist' solidified in the music lexicon by the 19th century as the cello became an established and important instrument in classical music, thanks to composers like Haydn, Boccherini, and later, Brahms and Dvořák, who wrote compelling works for it. Today, cellists are celebrated not only in classical contexts but also in jazz and popular music, reflecting the instrument's versatility and enduring appeal.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,704, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.