Solo Cello Composition: Double Stops Question?

Question

Can the G or D strings be muted by Cellist so that a double stop can be played on the G and A, or C and D strings? Would greatly appreciate a response.

Answer 1

There is no way to 100% mute a string in a way that would allow it to be used again quickly and without the cellist stopping. In general all double stops need to be able to be played on adjacent strings, 3 string stops exist but are played as a flam from top to bottom as it's not easy to reach across 3 strings at once with the bow. The bridge is curved so to play 3 strings at once the middle string would have to have a ton of pressure on it.

Answer 2

Unfortunately, there is no way to mute specific strings on Cello or any similar string instrument for that matter. Since the structure of strings is rounded because of the bridge you also cannot play double stops where the notes reside on strings that have another string in between them. Double stops can only be played when the strings are right next to each other. However, as Adam S mentioned in his answer, it is possible to pizzicato strings that are not right next to each other.

For example,

you can play double stops on the A and D strings since they are next to each other.

you cannot play double stops on the A and G strings since there is the D string that separates them.

Hope this clears things up and if anyone is interested in understanding more about what is possible on the cello please feel free to contact me so that we can get a meeting arranged! :)

Answer 3

NOPE, unless if you are doing some contemorary inventions

Answer 4

Yes, it requires a specific type of mute, but if you do not want to buy the mute, a different bowing style can be used.

Answer 5

Yes. If you are only playing the open strings you can depress the silent string towards the end of the fingerboard. Then you would need to have your bow placement higher than usual to avoid the depressed string. I wouldn't call this a recommended practice, but depending on your bridge curve it should be possible.

Answer 6

If you're playing pizzicato (meaning the strings are plucked with the fingers), yes! Unfortunately if you are playing arco (meaning with the bow), NO, however this may sound silly, but if you turn the bow upside down and play the bottom of the strings from underneath them, you can play on the C and A simultaneously without hitting the D or G strings.