We are pleased to offer this fine cello crafted by violinmaker William Whedbee for examination, trial and purchase.
Instrument Type: Cello
Year: 2002
Price: $35,000
Maker: William Whedbee
Dimensions: Back Length: 74.1 cm. Upper Bout: 35.1 cm. Middle Bout: 24.8 cm Lower Bout: 44.05 cm. String length: 69.0 cm.
The Cello
Made in Chicago in 2002, this William Whedbee cello has a striking appearance and a warm, inviting tonal character. The two-piece back is of quarter-cut maple with soft, irregular flames running horizontally, with small wings added to the lower bouts by the maker. The ribs show deeper, irregular figure, while the grafted scroll is carved from plain maple. The two-piece spruce top features wide, even grain. A beautifully antiqued golden orange-brown varnish over a golden ground gives the instrument a distinctive, mature appearance.
The cello has a lovely, warm tone with richness and depth across the registers. Its excellent response provides an immediate connection to the instrument, allowing for easy articulation and a broad range of color and dynamics.
The Maker
William Whedbee is a distinguished American violin maker based in Chicago. Originally from Hawaii, he studied at the University of Chicago before attending the International School of Violin Making in Cremona, Italy, where he trained with several prominent Italian makers. Returning to Chicago in 1979, Whedbee joined the workshop of William Harris Lee, producing hundreds of instruments and training other makers. In 1992, he established his own workshop, where he has earned an international reputation for finely crafted violins, violas, and particularly cellos.
Terms of Sale
This fine cello is available for examination and trial and has been meticulously set up to our exacting specifications before addition to our catalog. If you wish to inquire further about this cello, please contact us using the green button at the top of this listing or call 1-818-762-1374 during business hours.