What makes the violin sound so differently from the cello?
Answer Hi Addison, Great question. A lot of factors go into the sound of a string instrument, and you are partially correct when you suggest size as a major factor. Size and proportion have a lot to do with the differences in the way a cello and violin sound. As I’m sure you have noticed, both instruments look very alike. Some would even say that a cello simply looks like a larger violin. Each instrument has a similar shape, a bridge, 4 strings, a fingerboard, and tuning pegs. However, they are very different in the proportions. The size of the instrument will have a lot to do with the amount of sound (the loudness) the instrument is able to produce. Sound is essentially the vibration of air inside the insturment and therefore the more space available for vibration, the more vibration there will be, and threrefore the more sound is produced. On the other hand, the proportions of the insturment will really affect the way the vibrations sound. Violins are considered a “soprano” instrumen
