Scala Corta Cello
Scala Corta Cello
We were delighted to discover the Scala Corta cello, designed by Stephanie Voss as the perfect answer to a frequent problem: how can a small person play an instrument as large as a cello. We frequently heard of players suffering from aches and pains as they struggled to negotiate the traditional string length of a full-scale cello.
Offering a 7/8 cello is helpful, but often they have more limited tones as the body size is reduced. The Scala Corta offers a shortened string length on a body of a full-scale cello! The smaller neck, reinforced with a carbon-fiber truss rod offers a perfect solution. Smaller hands can easily negotiate the shortened string length yet the sound is full and robust!
Not just for smaller players, those suffering from arthritis, the Scala Corta has also been a godsend: with less finger-stretching, the hands are under far less stress.
To fully accommodate the shortened string length, the peg box has also been redesigned to allow more room, pushing the C-peg higher up and further away from the hand at rest in first position.
And, to top it off, Tonareli Cases has designed a lightweight, carbon-fiber case that perfectly fits the Scala Corta — included in the price!
The Scala Corta Cello is:
-A 4/4 cello
- The string length is only 655mm or 25 ½” (standard 4/4 cello string length is 690mm or 27¼”)
- To allow for a thinner neck without sacrificing endurance and stability we built in a carbon fiber rod into the neck
- Designed by Stephanie Voss, Master Violin Maker holding a Master in Violin Making Diploma from Germany
-The C-peg is redesigned to sit higher in the peg box to allow for better string vibration and more playing comfort
- It is set up with genuine parts :
New Harmony Music endpin, made in the USA
Belgium style bridge by Chevalets Despiau made in France
Wittner Finetune Pegs
Fingerboard - GaiaTone by V. Richelieu
- It is moderately priced and includes a carbon fiber light weight cello case, specifically designed for the Scala Corta Cello
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Answer: The Scala Corta cello features a reduced string length and ergonomic design, making it easier for cellists with smaller hands to comfortably reach and press the strings, reducing finger strain.
The neck is also thinner than a traditional cello neck and is reinforced with a carbon fiber truss rod. The ¾ scale length requires less splay in the fingers.
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Answer: The shorter string length minimizes finger stretching, alleviating joint strain and making it more comfortable for those with arthritis to play longer without discomfort.
Shifts from first position into the higher positions is also easier and faster.
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Answer: It requires standard cello care, such as regular string changes, bridge adjustments, and proper humidification, without added complexity from its design.
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Answer: Absolutely! Its ergonomic and comfortable design makes it perfect for beginners, while its high-quality craftsmanship and tone meet the needs of advanced cellists.
The GaiaTone fingerboard is stronger than ebony and will require fewer dressings and adjustments.
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Answer: GaiaTone is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional ebony, which is endangered. It is crafted from post-consumer recycled paper and free of harmful chemicals, providing a sustainable and durable fingerboard option.
GaiaTone requires less maintenance than traditional ebony.
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Answer: The Scala Corta cello features GaiaTone fingerboards, combining sustainability with quality. This innovative material not only supports environmental responsibility but also ensures a reliable, consistent playing surface.
GaiaTone is a paper product made from 100% post-consumer paper. It is virtually indistinguishable from ebony, but it is harder and lasts longer with less maintenance than ebony.
GaiaTone is milled in our South Burlington workshop using state-of-the-art CNC milling technology. The fingerboards are designed in-house to our specifications.