Cello Intermediate 23: Introduction to Chromatic Scales

Introduction to chromatic scales on the cello

In this video, we are going to discuss chromatic scales on the cello. People often ask, "How do you know where to play on the cello?" If you look at a piano, every single semitone is blocked off by a white or black note. On the cello, we have to find that pitch, visualise it, and build the muscle memory to play it consistently. Chromatic scales, playing all 12 notes within an octave, are the perfect exercise for this.

The "Lego brick" method

I like to think about each semitone as a "Lego brick." Imagine you are stacking little blocks one on top of the other.

The main challenge is that as we move higher in pitch, the physical spacing on the cello fingerboard gets smaller and smaller. You cannot use the exact same spacing at the top of the scale as you do in half position at the nut. You have to consciously move your fingers closer together as you transition positions.

Positions and patterns

We use two primary positions for this scale: half position and second position.

The pattern is very helpful because your brain doesn't have to think too much. It is always: Open - 1 - 2 - 3 - 1 - 2 - 3 - Open - 1 - 2 - 3 - 1 - 2...

When you shift from half position to second position, ensure you use a clean substitution shift. As you descend, the pattern can be tricky. There is a specific "jump" required to place your third finger correctly on the way down from half position. I sometimes think of this as the "Batman" sound, it’s a funny jump, but once you practise that muscle memory enough, it works perfectly.

Practising on different strings

You can practise these on the G, C, and D strings. Remember, when you play on the C string, you need a little more bow weight to get the sound to resonate properly.

Chromaticism in repertoire

If you would like to see a piece where you come across a lot of chromaticism, try my piece "Pancakes" from It's a Cello Thing, Book 1. Have a listen to the chromatic areas in that piece, and see if you can apply these same finger patterns and spacing adjustments.

Once you get used to the spacing, you can keep the chromatic scale going forever! It is great practice for your ears and your hands.