Traveling with a cello

[VNightingale]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

 

[Frankybaby66]

I walked to Finisterre last year and met with a Israeli guy who was traveling with a Turkish lute. He used baggage transfer for his 'normal' gear but carried his lute in a case with shoulder straps.
A real character, and very popular addition to the evening's entertainment . .

 

[MinaKamina]

You make it sound (no pun intended) as if you have never done this before. If so, please try a short trip near home and see how that works out. Size of the son? Size of the cello? Size and weight of your other luggage? Will one of you be carrying a backpack for two?

I'm inclined to think that a violin would be easier to transport and take care of than a cello, but to each his own.

 

[Ianinam]

And what if it is raining really heavy?

 

[roving_rufus]

It's not impossible - I think of Anja and harp going to Rome on foot pilgrimage.

The Road To Rome - The Flauting Harper

The Road To Rome Day 161 : Pilgrim’s Update – 1st September 2018 Day 161 if #fromheretorome day 4 of Rome When the… Read More theflautingharperSeptember 1, 2018 Day 158 : Pilgrim’s Update – 29th August 2018 Day 158 of #fromheretorome – Rome Read More theflautingharperAugust 29, 2018 Day 157 ...

theflautingharper.com

But it is a major undertaking to carry such a large and awkwardly shaped instrument.

Nor would I assume that luggage transfer services would be happy transporting such a large and awkward piece of luggage, or guarantee it would be safe being left sitting around in lobbies, never mind possible damage.

 

[duncanwhyte]

An electric cello transmitted via Bluetooth.

 

[Grousedoctor]

You pose a most fascinating question regarding the Camino. As a pilgrim, I can’t think of anything much more pleasant than enjoying a nice glass of Rioja in a town square after walking all day and getting serenaded by a cello. However, from a logistical point of view, it strikes me as quite an undertaking with a number of important variables to consider as @MinaKamina points out. From the little bit of research I did, it seems that on average between the weight of the cello and its case, your son will be carrying over 20 pounds and maybe closer to 25 pounds. As a reference point here, I keep my entire pack between 12-14 pounds. Add on varying degrees of terrain difficulty and inclement weather across the Camino and I think you have more than a significant challenge ahead of you. Would I trust a transport company to move my valuable cello daily? Probably not even if they would consider doing it. Pulling a customized trolley might be an option, but I’m not sure such an item exits. Perhaps it’s worth looking into. Good luck exploring this idea further and Buen Camino!

 

[Bradypus]

Pulling a customized trolley might be an option, but I’m not sure such an item exits.

Something like a golf bag trolley perhaps? I wonder how well a cello would stand up to the frequent jolting over rocks and uneven ground. Carrying it on one's back would seem safer in that regard though a challenge all the same. Whatever the choice it would seem wise to leave the Stradivarius at home and take the spare instead.

 

[Perambulating Griffin]

There was a young cellist who made a documentary about taking his cello and playing music that IIRC was at risk of being lost to any kind of *living memory* (it exists on paper, but people so rarely hear it played that they don't have what used to be part of the cultural soundscape in their heads anymore).
For the life of me I can't recall the name of the film now, but give a search... I believe he explains how he managed the practical features.

 

[ShoshTrvls]

There was a young cellist who made a documentary about taking his cello and playing music that IIRC was at risk of being lost to any kind of *living memory* (it exists on paper, but people so rarely hear it played that they don't have what used to be part of the cultural soundscape in their heads anymore).
For the life of me I can't recall the name of the film now, but give a search... I believe he explains how he managed the practical features.

Strangers on Earrth. See also this thread: https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...instruments-on-the-camino.83518/#post-1188227

 

[lovingkindness]

Walking cello trio in the streets of Riga

 

[mspath]

Check out this earlier post written by fellow forum member SusanWW re Dane Johansen who played his cello on the camino.

 

[MinaKamina]

Check out

this earlier post
this post written by fellow forum member SusanWW re Dane Johansen who played his cello on the camino.

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/weirdest-strangest-item-someone-has-taken-on-the-camino.76509/post-1061832

he had a van and a film crew, and usually the cello was in that van....

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...e-has-taken-on-the-camino.76509/#post-1061850

 

[Pilgrim9]

Even if no actual rain or mechanical shocks be encountered, might not high and/or fluctuating temperatures and humidities damage the instrument or soften the glues, or at the very least create difficulties keeping it in tune? Also, could high humidity in combination with temperature cycling set the stage for mildew? Galicia for example is a particularly moist place but high humidity could be encountered anywhere at any time.

The Camino is not a controlled or highly-predictable environment. The unexpected can create exciting situations.

I wish you good luck!

 

[lovingkindness]

Redirect Notice

Electric cello? Weighs next to nothing. Is there some thing acoustic like this minus the electricity?

In Amsterdam I once saw a double bassist playing an improvised cardboard box bass. He was accompanied by Hang drum, a wonderful sound.

 

[Felice]

Walking through Birmingham airport after my last camino, I was walking directly behind a young man carry a cello on his back. The main body of the instrument was in the position of a normal rucksack whilst the neck stuck up way above his head. At one point, I thought he was going to smack the cello head on a low beam, but it just went under. As we waited for the shuttle, I told him that it looked as though he had only just avoided the beam. He smiled and said no, he carried his cello like that so often that he knew exactly how tall it was.

 

[wvtreehanger]

Is there a group of cellists in Spain that would loan one of theirs when y’all travel through their respective towns?

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Electric cello? Weighs next to nothing. Is there some thing acoustic like this minus the electricity?

I've seen an electric (or battery?) powered cello in Nice, France on the water's promenade being played a number of years ago. I was taken by surprise as they are so odd looking and I'd not seen one before...or since.

 

[Caomhin O Fearghaill]

While walking the The Camino Frances in 2011 I met a very nice couple. One of them had a guitar. Every so often we would meet up and there would be a merry tune to round off the day. In the nature of things we lost sight of one another as we walked on.This can happen on the Camino. Anyway, about a week later I met the couple again about 30k from Santiago. I noticed the guitar was gone, "What happened to the guitar"? I enquired. "I'm not sure" was the reply. "I think I may have left it behind me at one of the albergues....." Now losing socks, hats, phones, Swiss Army knives I can understand, But a big acoustic guitar in its own case? That's like forgetting your boots. Is there a moral to this story? I think so. Be careful what you bring on the Camino.....unless you have a support vehicle lurking somewhere or a luggage transportation outfit at your disposal... Buen Camino

 

[FLEUR]

If your son travels by air to the start of your camino check the airline rules for carrying musical instruments.

 

[Blister Bill]

Just want to wish you the best of luck as a former double bass player. I could only suggest wheels ... and a fervent hope your son is very strong. Nothing is impossible heck it's been done in a wheel chair. Is he any good with Donkeys?

 

[Parisian]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

I have walked the Camino four times and design on trail. I bring a rake. On trail I always enjoyed musicians. I am an assemblagé artist of repurposed broken instruments. My Carnivale Woman will be with this young musician in spirit. However burdonsome, we shares our gifts. Buen Camino to both of you.

 

[EvaT]

I play the cello and usually carry it in a hard case on my back like a backpack. To make it comfortable on a long walk you would need a good backpack framework. It weights around 8 kilos, a little more than I carry on a pilgrimage. I’m note sure that sun for many hours is good for the cello. But I think it would be so nice to hear your son play if I was on the camino.

 

[Gthiker]

I agree that the idea of playing ( and for locals and pilgrims, hearing) cello in a beautiful town square sounds lovely. But carrying it every day for five weeks or so and hoping it stays dry( rain is almost a sure thing) , and safe from damage from temperature swings and possible drops or falls on uneven or slippery terrain, especially downhills, sounds a bit ambitious.

FedEx exists in Spain and their website has a form for estimating shipping costs. Perhaps starting in Pamplona and shipping it a few times between larger cities with FedEx offices might make more sense. It would add to the expense some and he would play in fewer cities. And perhaps to play in some smaller places, taking a cab for occasionally would work. Just a thought.

 

[MinaKamina]

Since a cello is a valuable, you should wrap it in a plastic bag and take it with you in the shower.

 

[Kimtom]

It would be less risky in many ways to take a carbon fiber cello on a Camino than a wooden one. They are nearly indestructible.

 

[Tincatinker]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

Are you sure he really does want to do the Camino?

Hauling a cello strikes me as a very effective method of curtailing or even avoiding a Camino

 

[Flog]

Are you sure he really does want to do the Camino?

Hauling a cello strikes me as a very effective method of curtailing or even avoiding a Camino

Maybe he'll find the kid with the damn skateboard and they can strap it to that, then rope one of the parents into dragging it half way across Spain for them.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

While walking the The Camino Frances in 2011 I met a very nice couple. One of them had a guitar. Every so often we would meet up and there would be a merry tune to round off the day. In the nature of things we lost sight of one another as we walked on.This can happen on the Camino. Anyway, about a week later I met the couple again about 30k from Santiago. I noticed the guitar was gone, "What happened to the guitar"? I enquired. "I'm not sure" was the reply. "I think I may have left it behind me at one of the albergues....." Now losing socks, hats, phones, Swiss Army knives I can understand, But a big acoustic guitar in its own case? That's like forgetting your boots. Is there a moral to this story? I think so. Be careful what you bring on the Camino.....unless you have a support vehicle lurking somewhere or a luggage transportation outfit at your disposal... Buen Camino

Back in 2003 I saw a group of Italians with a Spanish guitar. They said at first it was enjoyable but later it became a penance - whoever had transgressed got to carry the guitar until the next "sinner" was chosen.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

Would the other residents of where you are staying have a say in as to whether or not they would wish to listen to the performance?
A friend and I took harmonicas on one pilgrimage and we made sure we only played as far from others as possible. And she's a good musician.

 

[JRO]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

If your goal is to share music, could your son record various pieces playing them at home on his phone, and then take a small blue tooth speaker and broadcast in the evenings? Of course, he would need decent wifi to do it, unless he wanted to just turn his phone volume up.

 

[Flog]

Would the other residents of where you are staying have a say in as to whether or not they would wish to listen to the performance?

That is a valid point:

"Hey, can you play the song Far Away?
"Emm, not sure.. how does it go?
"No, can you play it far away.. the further the better!"

 

[henrythedog]

Thank you

Would the other residents of where you are staying have a say in as to whether or not they would wish to listen to the performance?
A friend and I took harmonicas on one pilgrimage and we made sure we only played as far from others as possible. And she's a good musician.

I’m keeping a low profile as my reaction to virtually non-existant infection didn’t find universal acclaim.

I generally appreciate strolling musicians carrying their instrument prominently as it gives me the chance of avoiding enforced jollity without causing offence.

A cello though is a marvellous instrument and I assume that anyone so dedicated that they would take it on Camino has a reasonable degree of proficiency.

 

[Blister Bill]

...and ultimate bragging rights. What was your luxury item that you carried in your pack ? A cello ! Ivar better interview this pilgrim !!

 

[SabsP]

Back in 2003 I saw a group of Italians with a Spanish guitar. They said at first it was enjoyable but later it became a penance - whoever had transgressed got to carry the guitar until the next "sinner" was chosen.

De gustibus non est disputandum of course but the idea of someone playing an instrument in an albergue is as attractive as the idea of a Camino family. Not my cup of tea.
Especially when that group starts singing.
For that reason only I choose private accomodations or lesser travelled Caminos where an albergue with three pilgrims is considered a crowd.

 

[mspath]

De gustibus non est disputandum of course but the idea of someone playing an instrument in an albergue is as attractive as the idea of a Camino family. Not my cup of tea.
Especially when that group starts singing.
For that reason only I choose private accomodations or lesser travelled Caminos where an albergue with three pilgrims is considered a crowd.

Not my cup of tea either hence I often chose to walk alone in winter

 

[GPeachy]

Aside from the weight, I would be very concerned about possible damage from a fall. There are sections that are tricky to navigate with a lightish backpack, rocky uphills or downhills, muddy sections that are quite slippery. I have a violin, which is much smaller and lighter, but would never consider taking it on the Camino. On the other hand, my husband has a travel guitar, which he takes on car trips. If something happens to it, he wouldn't be heartbroken. I love cello music and I'm sure many people would enjoy hearing him play.

 

[HBS60]

I don’t have any helpful suggestions, but as challenging as this can be, as a classical pianist I’m jealous that at least a cello is portable. I wish you luck in figuring it out!

 

[henrythedog]

Aside from the weight, I would be very concerned about possible damage from a fall

They’ll be fine, I would have thought that landing on a cello should save most people from serious harm.

 

[Precentrix]

So practical suggestions from a string teacher (and yes, I play cello as well as fiddle):

If he really wants to do this:
1) Arrange main bag to be transferred each day, and walk with the cello. Do not trust the cello to the baggage transfer - even if there is no ill intent, it will likely be chucked into a van under a pile of other bags.
2) Bring a cheap, student instrument, not a good cello.
3) From everyday life and walking ca 45min each way with a cello on my back fairly regularly in the last couple of years, I strongly recommend the backpack attachment from BAM. This is cushioned, and has a proper waist/hip strap in the same way as a regular hiking backpack would (with a small pocket that you can put stuff in). From experience, this fits onto non-BAM cases but may take a bit of wangling. If you need a four-point attachment, the Gewa equivalent may work but is less ergonomically friendly.

Honestly, I occasionally tuck a plastic recorder into my backpack but having considered bringing my fiddle I came to the conclusion that it wouldn't be a good idea - if I want to pick up some Galician tunes I'll head over to the area especially for that, and I can always record some things on my phone if I want to take them back. The chances of playing every night are very slim.

Also, heads up, you'd be paying an extra seat on the flight(s) if they even allow the instrument to travel, and may have difficulty with trains and coaches.

 

[dbier]

Couple of echos on points, and an observation.

1. Unless he's played his cello outdoors over multiple days already, he really isn't tracking how difficult it is to keep a wooden instrument and its bow in working condition. Also, many albergues aren't blessed with central air and/or central humidity control.

If he has a carbon fiber cello, his bow will still likely need restrung at least once on a 5 week Camino, assuming you're walking the Frances.

2. Most luggage transport services along the Camino consist of young men playing Tetris with backpacks. *If* they accept a cello *at all*, they're not going to treat it as fragile.

Observation. Is your son intending to busk along the way, or is he willing to *ask* before playing, and do it for *free*? I am pretty confident that there are local regulations regarding foreigners trying to do things for pay, even Schengen members like yourselves.

 

[FLEUR]

So practical suggestions from a string teacher (and yes, I play cello as well as fiddle):

If he really wants to do this:
1) Arrange main bag to be transferred each day, and walk with the cello. Do not trust the cello to the baggage transfer - even if there is no ill intent, it will likely be chucked into a van under a pile of other bags.
2) Bring a cheap, student instrument, not a good cello.
3) From everyday life and walking ca 45min each way with a cello on my back fairly regularly in the last couple of years, I strongly recommend the backpack attachment from BAM. This is cushioned, and has a proper waist/hip strap in the same way as a regular hiking backpack would (with a small pocket that you can put stuff in). From experience, this fits onto non-BAM cases but may take a bit of wangling. If you need a four-point attachment, the Gewa equivalent may work but is less ergonomically friendly.

Honestly, I occasionally tuck a plastic recorder into my backpack but having considered bringing my fiddle I came to the conclusion that it wouldn't be a good idea - if I want to pick up some Galician tunes I'll head over to the area especially for that, and I can always record some things on my phone if I want to take them back. The chances of playing every night are very slim.

Also, heads up, you'd be paying an extra seat on the flight(s) if they even allow the instrument to travel, and may have difficulty with trains and coaches.

So true. Pay for an extra sear or have your instrument put in the aircraft hold.
I've just been to Italy with my violin. Fortunately I chose an airline that allowed a violin to be placed in the overhead locker. (Not all of them do) Getting on and off trains with a small case on wheels and a violin on my back was challenging at times.
I didn't go hiking.

 

[MinaKamina]

I once worked in marketing & fundraising for a string quartet. Classical music, old instruments.
When travelling, the quartet becomes a quintet, because the cello needs its own seat in trains, planes and automobiles. This may add considerable costs and complications to any travel arrangement.

How will this cello travel from Germany to Spain and the starting point of the unspecified Camino? How will it return, and if the need arises, is there a plan B in case the owners have to break up their trip?

 

[Jeff Crawley]

De gustibus non est disputandum of course but the idea of someone playing an instrument in an albergue is as attractive as the idea of a Camino family. Not my cup of tea.
Especially when that group starts singing.
For that reason only I choose private accomodations or lesser travelled Caminos where an albergue with three pilgrims is considered a crowd.

Oh a rousing chorus of Kumbaya never hurt anybody . . . much

 

[Linda SLP]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

Dane Johansen has a documentary on walking the Camino with the cello. It's called strangers on the Earth. A journey on the Camino they Santiago. He carried his cello in a special Italian case I believe, but he also had a film crew with him. Who knows. Maybe you could contact him and find out what he can recommend! I was on the Camino same time he was in 2014.

 

[trecile]

Here's information and the trailer for Strangers on Earth.

Strangers on the Earth (2016) ⭐ 7.5 | Documentary

1h 36m

www.imdb.com

And an article from the NYT (free link):

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/09/arts/music/bach-cello-dane-johansen.html?unlocked_article_code=1._00.sy9R._izrlZanBkh3&smid=url-share

 

[Linda SLP]

Dane Johansen has a documentary on walking the Camino with the cello. It's called strangers on the Earth. A journey on the Camino they Santiago. He carried his cello in a special Italian case I believe, but he also had a film crew with him. Who knows. Maybe you could contact him and find out what he can recommend! I was on the Camino same time he was in 2014.

He's easy to find on Google.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

I don’t have any helpful suggestions, but as challenging as this can be, as a classical pianist I’m jealous that at least a cello is portable. I wish you luck in figuring it out!

I once attended an evening drama performance at my daughters' school. On the same evening, in a different hall, there was a meeting of a junior harp club. One mother was struggling to get her small child's medium sized harp out of the back on their Volvo estate and on to its wheelie rack and was heard to say "Why you couldn't settle for the piccolo I'll never understand!"

 

[Linda SLP]

Strangers on Earrth. See also this thread: https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...instruments-on-the-camino.83518/#post-1188227

However, the bach cello suites that Dane played are in no danger of being lost!

 

[Richard Smith]

Give it a try (first before you go)
1. Do a full-day walk with a full pack weight several days in a row and see if you son wants to play each night.
2. Get the pack-frame and cello carry bag sorted and do several days walks, playing each night.

 

[VNightingale]

You pose a most fascinating question regarding the Camino. As a pilgrim, I can’t think of anything much more pleasant than enjoying a nice glass of Rioja in a town square after walking all day and getting serenaded by a cello. However, from a logistical point of view, it strikes me as quite an undertaking with a number of important variables to consider as @MinaKamina points out. From the little bit of research I did, it seems that on average between the weight of the cello and its case, your son will be carrying over 20 pounds and maybe closer to 25 pounds. As a reference point here, I keep my entire pack between 12-14 pounds. Add on varying degrees of terrain difficulty and inclement weather across the Camino and I think you have more than a significant challenge ahead of you. Would I trust a transport company to move my valuable cello daily? Probably not even if they would consider doing it. Pulling a customized trolley might be an option, but I’m not sure such an item exits. Perhaps it’s worth looking into. Good luck exploring this idea further and Buen Camino!

Thanks for your thoughtful response. We are in initial stages of consideration.

 

[VNightingale]

You make it sound (no pun intended) as if you have never done this before. If so, please try a short trip near home and see how that works out. Size of the son? Size of the cello? Size and weight of your other luggage? Will one of you be carrying a backpack for two?

I'm inclined to think that a violin would be easier to transport and take care of than a cello, but to each his own.

Thanks, these are all important points. Regarding violin- he does not play this instrument and they are not really interchangeable, but thanks.

 

[VNightingale]

I have walked the Camino four times and design on trail. I bring a rake. On trail I always enjoyed musicians. I am an assemblagé artist of repurposed broken instruments. My Carnivale Woman will be with this young musician in spirit. However burdonsome, we shares our gifts. Buen Camino to both of you.

Thank you for sharing. What you do sounds amazing

 

[JustOneGuy]

I don't mean to offend you, @VNightingale, believe me (my wife is a hiker AND a musician - baroque recorder, piano and she is a language coach for opera singers), but just to bring a little fun here: when I read this, I couldn't think of anything else than this:

That being said, I would really love to meet you and your son playing some good music on the Camino! Good luck with your preparations. I really wish you will be able to do this. And I like unusual ideas!

 

[michael]

Chapeau to the cello player. I was havering over taking a ukulele.

 

[Lucy Keenan]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

Doesn't sound like a great idea

 

[mikebet]

Another note of caution for airports: some years ago in the airport in San Sebastian I was the involuntary observer of a very heated discussion between a guy trying to check in with a cello and the ticket counter gal. It went on for a long time and got pretty heated. Of course I don't know the details, but it makes me think it would be a good idea to have some written airline guidance about baggage rules in hand just in case the ticket agent decides to object. A lot of times when employees don't know the rules or what to do they say no by default. I have encountered this with DMV here in the US and customs overseas -- ultimately successful but delayed and inconvenienced.

 

[sambajammer]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

In my opinion, don't take it unless you plan on using a pack pack forwarding service, and even so you will worry about damage to the instrument each day. On my first Camino I took along a recorder, a copy of the Tao De Ching, and a few extras like rainpants and an extra pair of pants and shirt. Three days later when I got to Pamplona I mailed it all home.

 

[David61]

As many say above the risk of damage from the weather and/or accident could quite high. But also given that most pilgrims walk pretty much similar distances (hence the forming of "Camino families" ) you will likely have much the same captive audience each evening. Until you get to Sarria of course, then you get a whole new audience.

 

[Pierre Julian]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

I'm almost not sure if this post is a joke, but just in case it isn't - DON'T

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Chapeau to the cello player. I was havering over taking a ukulele.

Go for it! If it was good enough for Elvis . . .

 

[Robo]

Sounds wonderful if he plays well.........

I was having flashbacks to a family on Camino who would very proudly look on as their son sang Gospel type songs at every opportunity day or night.

Sadly he couldn't really hold a tune. It was purgatory.

 

[Walkalong]

Sounds nice. We have enjoyed pilgrims who played their guitars and ukuleles.

While not a Cello, Oliver the violin pilgrim from Canada, had a very good friend carry a miniature recording studio.

Apparently you need a letter from the Bishop to play in churches! Then again, Laurie Lee, who recounted his experience in "As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning" discovered that permits were needed to busk in each town or city.

 

[ginniek]

he had a van and a film crew, and usually the cello was in that van....

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...e-has-taken-on-the-camino.76509/#post-1061850

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

Why don't you and your son contact Dane and ask his opinion and advice. He is a Cellist with the Cleveland Symphony (we don't usually bother to add "Orchestra" because everyone one already knows--or you did if you grew up in Cleveland).
Dane has a Facebook page and also is an instructor for Juilliard's pre-college program. He's probably friendly, too.

 

[Bob Calver]

Could there be confusion here between the word cello and the Spanish word for stamp. If your son is planning to take a stamp your problems are over. Buen Camino

 

[David Tallan]

Could there be confusion here between the word cello and the Spanish word for stamp. If your son is planning to take a stamp your problems are over. Buen Camino

In standard Castillan Spain, cello and sello are pronounced quite differently, unlike in American Spanish, so I don't think that confusion is likely.

 

[Bill905]

That is a valid point:

"Hey, can you play the song Far Away?
"Emm, not sure.. how does it go?
"No, can you play it far away.. the further the better!"

"Can you play your cello solo ... so low we can't hear it!"

 

[C clearly]

In standard Castillan Spain, cello and cello are pronounced quite differently

Only if you misspell "sello."

 

[Jeff Crawley]

In standard Castillan Spain, cello and sello are pronounced quite differently, unlike in American Spanish, so I don't think that confusion is likely.

Unless you stamp on it . . . My nephew Paul was, age 12, learning cello at school. My brother went to get him up one morning and found the instrument smashed on the floor beside the bed. It was presumed that Paul had risen in the night and trodden on it.
The remains were bundled up in a garbage bag to take back to school.
He returned home later that day - with a new cello and the message that "Teacher said they do that, sometimes cellos just explode!"
Yeah, right.
He gave up learning soon afterwards.

 

[FLEUR]

Years ago, coming down Alto del Perdon I slipped, the rucksack on my back cushioned me, no harm done. A fall with a cello in its case, carried rucksack style, wouldn't do well.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Years ago, coming down Alto del Perdon I slipped, the rucksack on my back cushioned me, no harm done. A fall with a cello in its case, carried rucksack style, wouldn't do well.

On the other hand, if you're being pursued by a mob of angry Russians . . .

 

[David Tallan]

Only if you misspell "sello."

D'oh! Corrected.

 

[David Tallan]

Years ago, coming down Alto del Perdon I slipped, the rucksack on my back cushioned me, no harm done. A fall with a cello in its case, carried rucksack style, wouldn't do well.

I believe in the film, Dane is shown carrying his cello in a hard case, perhaps to provide some protection against such falls, although I don't know how much protection a hard case provides.

 

[FLEUR]

If the hard case is carried rucksack fashion and the material has a shiny surface one slide down at speed!

 

[RonBenfield]

Cellist here. I think this is a n interesting but impractical idea.

Everyone worried about damage of rain etc doesn’t need to worry if it’s in a good BAM case. Orchestras travel all over the world with their instruments.

But a cello in a $2,000 BAM case in a $800 outer liner will weigh 40 pounds, and while safe is not carryable on the Camino.

Not to mention not everyone appreciates music just because someone wants to supply it. The prelude to Bach’s first cello suite is widely known and might be tolerated but 5 minutes might be plenty for most people. I’d certainly not choose to impose my playing on others.

 

[DonnaS18]

I’m currently just under the 100k mark from Santiago. This is about day 29 walking from SJPDP and my second Camino. My first was 6 years ago. Things change and your memory fades. I’ve decided the Camino is like childbirth in that you forget the bad bits and ONLY remember the good stuff. That being said my pack is way heavier than I remember (now about 8kgs) and walking 25-30k daily is now a long way.
While I think people are being courteous to you, (your son carrying his cello and a backpack) the reality is it’s not practical nor feasible and I concur with others it may well be a red herring for him not actually wanting to do this walk. The ONLY way I can see it be feasible is if you do one of those Camino tours where you walk for 10-15k per day and the company takes your bags from hotel to hotel. Just as a trial I suggest at home he carries his cello for 10 miles (16km) one day, and only puts it down once every hour or two for 20-30 mins. Guaranteed your troubles will be over and at the end of your day he sure won’t want to play it. I’ve carried a novel for +600k this trip and have only attempted to read it twice for about 20 minutes. At home I read religiously daily.
Remember the Camino is here to teach us, and part of that learning for me this time has been that I don’t need a novel, it’s just a weight in my pack of my homelife.

 

[OZAJ]

If you are going to arrange for the instrument to be transported safely, no (?) problem.

Otherwise, unless you are prepared to trash the instrument, forget it.

I have thought about taking my uilleann pipes on the camino ... for about 15 seconds.

 

[David Tallan]

It makes total sense to say that it is impossible except for the tiny matter that others have done it.

 

[JustOneGuy]

It makes total sense to say that it is impossible except for the tiny matter that others have done it.

I agree with you. A man ran the London Marathon in a deep-sea diving suit (and many other funny outfits). A woman ran it in 3 inch stilettos. A father completed an Ironman pushing his disabled son.

And so on... There is plenty of room for the very first person walking the Camino with a Cello!

 

[David Tallan]

I agree with you. A man ran the London Marathon in a deep-sea diving suit (and many other funny outfits). A woman ran it in 3 inch stilettos. A father completed an Ironman pushing his disabled son.

And so on... There is plenty of room for the very first person walking the Camino with a Cello!

It's too late for that. Someone already was the first. That may or may not have been the person who made a movie of himself doing that.

 

[William Garza]

Who will benefit from it?
Can he play well enough to be listened to?

Assuming both?
You may get neither

But more power to you

 

[FLEUR]

Who will benefit from it?
Can he play well enough to be listened to?

Assuming both?
You may get neither

But more power

So true. Pay for an extra sear or have your instrument put in the aircraft hold.
I've just been to Italy with my violin. Fortunately I chose an airline that allowed a violin to be placed in the overhead locker. (Not all of them do) Getting on and off trains with a small case on wheels and a violin on my back was challenging at times.
I didn't go hiking.

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

A pochette violin would be easy to carry.
My Luthier showed me one yesterday. They're tiny, and were used by travellers and dance teacher. The instrument could be tucked in a pocket or bag when not in use.

 

[JustOneGuy]

It's too late for that. Someone already was the first. That may or may not have been the person who made a movie of himself doing that.

Sorry - I misinterpreted what you wrote. However, I am always intrigued by people's ideas, even if they are a little crazy, and this guy's idea of walking a Camino with a cello, although it reminds me of the Woody Allen skit I reported above , intrigues me a lot.

 

[Flog]

Ok, I'll say it then..

It's self indulgent and ridiculous to consider bringing a cello on a pilgrimage.

 

[JustOneGuy]

Ok, I'll say it then..

It's self indulgent and ridiculous to consider bringing a cello on a pilgrimage.

Actually, from what I read, @VNightingale doesn't consider this "a pilgrimage" (and so do I).

p.s. Please consider also rule 3 of this forum before it will be locked...

 

[Kathor1]

It makes total sense to say that it is impossible except for the tiny matter that others have done it.

This remark made me curious. How much does a cello weigh?

The internet says: In general, a full-sized cello typically weighs between 5 and 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kilograms).

 

[JustOneGuy]

This remark made me curious. How much does a cello weigh?

The internet says: In general, a full-sized cello typically weighs between 5 and 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kilograms).

I asked chatGPT:

A cello with its case (or bag) typically weighs between 8 to 15 kg (17 to 33 lbs), depending on several factors:

1. The cello itself: A full-size cello (4/4) usually weighs around 3 to 5 kg (6.6 to 11 lbs).
2. The case or bag: Soft padded gig bags are much lighter, generally weighing around 1 to 2 kg (2.2 to 4.4 lbs). Hard cases, on the other hand, can add 4 to 10 kg (8.8 to 22 lbs), depending on the materials (e.g., fiberglass, carbon fiber, etc.).

So, the combined weight of a cello in a soft case might be around 5 to 7 kg (11 to 15 lbs), while with a hard case, it could be closer to 10 to 15 kg (22 to 33 lbs).

---

That's a lot to carry....

 

[Kathor1]

1. The cello itself: A full-size cello (4/4) usually weighs around 3 to 5 kg (6.6 to 11 lbs).

Well, that's funny. I immediately went and asked my ChatGPT version - it's the cheapo version that does not cost anything. It said:

The weight of a cello typically ranges between 5 to 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kilograms). [...] A full sized cello usually falls within this range. ​

ChatGTP must have picked this from the same website where I had found it earlier myself through Google.

I had of course also had a quick look on Reddit where people own a 3.1 kg cello ... never trust a single source.

 

[JustOneGuy]

Actually, I asked ChatGPT because I was guessing the real weight is the case, not the instrument and couldn't find a quick answer.

(and btw, the answer by ChatGPT is wrong. Notoriously, ChatGPT doesn't know basic arithmetic, or how to use a calculator...).

 

[Jarrad]

I would not likely bring a musical instrument on the Camino (much less play it within earshot of anyone I remotely cared for). But if I were to consider it, then I'm glad I took up the harmonica and not the cello, tuba, trombone, pipe organ, or baby grand piano. (Ah, the thought of someone pushing that last one up to Col de Lepoeder ...).

 

[Jeff Crawley]

Well, that's funny. I immediately went and asked my ChatGPT version - it's the cheapo version that does not cost anything. It said:

The weight of a cello typically ranges between 5 to 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kilograms). [...] A full sized cello usually falls within this range. ​

ChatGTP must have picked this from the same website where I had found it earlier myself through Google.

I had of course also had a quick look on Reddit where people own a 3.1 kg cello ... never trust a single source.

I once considered buying a travel guitar . . .

(the Martin Backpacker)



but common sense kicked in and I bought a tenor ukulele instead. But along the same lines you can buy a "carbon fiber electro cello" which weighs in at less than a kilogramme. Still wouldn't inflict it (or my ukulele playing) on tired pilgrims that need to get some rest at the end of the day.

 

[William Garza]

Did not realise 2 things..
How light an actual cello weighs?

How heavy my camera and good lens weighs
Comperable lb for lb
My new to me nikon is 3 point something lbs and a 70-200 mm lens weighs about 3 1/4 for about 7lbs for just my everyday carry.
Not including other lenses and attendant baggage
Maybe a cello would not be such a bad idea..considering a whopper of an adventure to be had,stories to be told and a sense of accomplishment.

My old wild streak says just do it for the hoots and giggles at that memory you would carry forever

Personally a viola has more soul to it,
Maybe a flash string quartet would happen out under some far away evenings sun???

 

[dbier]

An electric cello may not weigh much...but the cord to wall power, or the battery, and the speaker, probably do. :/

A full size violin, back in the day, might only weigh a pound...but the case easily weighed 3. (Played as a child). Given a full size cello is several times the size of a violin, I'd say at least 5 lbs ( over 2kg) for the instrument at a minimum.

And, being real, for every person in an albergue that likes cello music, there is as likely to be one who hates it.

The OP said that her son wanted to carry it, and play it every night. IMHO, if he's up for a mixed reception, and understands that he'll do it without pay, *and* won't make his parent carry the other gear or do his noghtly chores?

As long as they're not planning the Ingles in early June, no skin off my nose.

 

[Jeff Crawley]

An electric cello may not weigh much...but the cord to wall power, or the battery, and the speaker, probably do. :/

A full size violin, back in the day, might only weigh a pound...but the case easily weighed 3. (Played as a child). Given a full size cello is several times the size of a violin, I'd say at least 5 lbs ( over 2kg) for the instrument at a minimum.

And, being real, for every person in an albergue that likes cello music, there is as likely to be one who hates it.

The OP said that her son wanted to carry it, and play it every night. IMHO, if he's up for a mixed reception, and understands that he'll do it without pay, *and* won't make his parent carry the other gear or do his noghtly chores?

As long as they're not planning the Ingles in early June, no skin off my nose.

My Marshall MS2, weighing in at a back breaking 380g!



ONE whole Watt of power, 9v battery.

 

[JustOneGuy]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

I beg your pardon, guys, but @VNightingale never said he would play in the albergues, he said he would play "every night along the way".

I interpreted it as him going to some open place and playing his cello, a sound that is certainly not that of an electric guitar playing an AC/DC song, but rather some Bach suite (one of my 5 favourite pieces of music btw) or something like that.

I have nothing against Heavy Metal but it is certainly not the same*.

*Although I agree that playing "Highway to Hell" to pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago would be slightly inappropriate... .

 

[dick bird]

Hi, I am planning to do the Camino next year with my son and he wants to bring his cello. He wants to perform each evening along the way. We are looking for advice on packing and managing the cello.
Thanks!

My advice would be to do a dry run. Pick a spot approximately 25 km from home and walk there, carrying the cello and a full backpack.

 

[DonnaS18]

This remark made me curious. How much does a cello weigh?

The internet says: In general, a full-sized cello typically weighs between 5 and 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kilograms).

That weight is without a case. Also it’s large.

I just watched a lady pushing a <2 in a stroller and had her 4 year old son walk beside her in the rain yesterday for about 15km.
Just because something is possible doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. I couldn’t help but think the poor boy may not have great memories of the Camino- the baby of course won’t remember.