An Early History of the Cello

A college student with experience working in the hospitality industry, Shana Lynn Davis attends George Mason University in pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing. Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Shana Lynn Davis plays the piano and cello. 

Originally called the bass violin, the cello later took its name from a shortened version of the term “violoncello,” which is Italian for “big little violin.” The instrument was first built in the early to mid-16th century by renowned Italian luthiers Andrea Amati, Gasparo da Salò, and Giovanni Paolo Maggini. The early versions were much larger than the modern cello because the strings used at the time were unable to produce lower pitches without added length. 

The development of wire-wound strings allowed for smaller cellos, and in the early 1700s, Antonio Stradivari standardized the size that is used today. By improving playability, the smaller size helped turn the cello into an instrument for soloists, most notably Luigi Boccherini, who pioneered the early solo style. 

To help enhance solo work with the cello, as well as all other members of the violin family, instrument makers made improvements to the bridge and neck design and started using thinner strings. The design of the cello has changed only minutely since these alterations were made at the turn of the 19th century.

Ways to Support the One Umbrella Foundation

Shana Lynn Davis studies business marketing at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Committed to serving her local community, Shana Lynn Davis supports the OneUmbrella Foundation.

The OneUmbrella Foundation is a nonprofit that facilitates the organization and staging of outreach events and initiatives. It is based in the Washington, DC, area and takes an active role in meeting needs on a regional level, though it also operates on the national and global scale. The foundation depends on generous individuals to donate their time and skills to make its programs possible.

OneUmbrella welcomes individuals and companies who are willing to host outreach and fundraising events. The organization provides planning and administrative support to event leaders, while also inviting corporations to sponsor events. Sponsors receive listing on the organization's website, Facebook page, and event marketing material.

The organization also welcomes donations for those who wish to support individuals and families affected by natural disaster. Financial donations are appreciated, as are donations of essentials such as clothing, food, and baby care supplies.