Our Cellos

Montangana Model

This particular model was inspired by Dominico Montagnana. Called the “Mighty Venetian” his cellos are prized by soloists the world over for their tone. Much time and thought went into this model, and every decision about it’s construction. Michael had many discussions with players about what they wanted in a cello, he found that many wanted that large powerful Montagnana sound but without the playability issues that can accompany them. Michael started with the outline of the “Sleeping Beauty” cello of 1739 and narrowed the upper bout by nearly 2cm. This allows the player to play around the the upper bout, and eases issues of bow  clearance around the c-bouts. In narrowing the upper he left the lower bout the full width of the original giving the cello enough air volume and strength to create a full projecting bass.

This model has been an immediate success. This model is lean and easy to play, speaks quickly and is even over all the strings. The C is huge and resonant with a projecting growl when pressed. And the A is sweet and clear and sings even when playing the upper reaches of the fingerboard. The cello pictured here is the winner of a Silver Medal for Tone in the 2008 VSA competition, and is owned by Mr. John Michel of Central Washington University and the Kairos Quartet.