Radbon Violoncello da spalla 2025

Two Violoncelli da Spalla – Based on Historical Models

I am offering two Violoncelli da Spalla, crafted under my personal supervision according to the historical model of the Hoffmann instrument held in the Grassi Museum.

Both instruments were produced through meticulous, quality-driven handiwork. These are explicitly not industrial or mass-produced items, but rather individually overseen instruments. The artistic and conceptual responsibility for their creation lies entirely with me.

The Instruments

• Model 1 – Original Dimensions Crafted exactly according to the dimensions of the historical model. Ideal for musicians seeking the highest level of historical authenticity.
• Model 2 – Extended Scale (+ approx. 25 mm) Proportionally larger by approximately 25 mm. Particularly suitable for players with larger hands or those who prefer a fuller, more resonant sound.

The Significance of the Violoncello da Spalla

The Violoncello da Spalla is, in a sense, "a cello for violinists and violists."

Played on the shoulder, it combines the rich sonority of the cello with the agility and technical freedom of the violin and viola family. This provides string players with immediate access to the cello repertoire without having to abandon their accustomed playing posture.

Historical sources repeatedly mention the Violoncello da Spalla as a solo instrument. It is highly probable that numerous 18th-century cello concertos were originally performed on such a shoulder cello.

Furthermore, the violinist and conductor Sigiswald Kuijken maintains that works such as Johann Sebastian Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos were likely conceived for a standing string orchestra—where the cellists, like the violinists and violists, performed while standing. In this context, the use of a shoulder cello is particularly plausible.

Repertoire

This instrument is suited not only for Bach's Cello Suites but also for 18th-century Italian solo repertoire and virtuoso concerto literature.

It is a complete, solo-capable instrument with a distinct character—historically grounded and musically versatile.

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