What is included in the Westbury Intermediate Cello Outfit?

The outfit includes the 7/8 size cello, a well-balanced bulletwood bow with white horsehair, and a padded bag for transportation. It is designed as a complete package for the advancing student.

What materials are used for the body of the cello?

The instrument features a hand-carved maple and spruce body. These traditional tonewoods are chosen for their durability and their ability to produce superior sound quality.

Who is the 7/8 size Westbury cello designed for?

The 7/8 size is specifically designed for dedicated students who find a full-size cello too large but require a higher-quality instrument than a standard 3/4 model. It is ideal for players with smaller frames or hands.

Are the fittings on the Westbury Intermediate cello durable?

Yes, the instrument uses ebony fittings. Ebony is a dense, hard-wearing wood that ensures both longevity and a comfortable experience for the player during frequent use.

How does the Westbury Intermediate differ from a beginner cello?

It features hand-carved woods rather than laminated materials, providing better resonance. It is intended as an upgrade for students who have moved beyond the initial learning stages.

What type of bow comes with the outfit?

The outfit includes a bulletwood bow. Bulletwood is a traditional material used for student bows to provide a balanced feel and reliable performance.

Is the Westbury Intermediate Cello hand-carved?

Yes, the body is hand-carved from maple and spruce. This manufacturing process allows for better tonal control compared to machine-pressed instruments.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Westbury Intermediate Cello Outfit 7/8 Size is typically priced at approximately £1,226. This reflects its status as an intermediate-level instrument.

Does this cello require specific rosin?

While it can use various types, products like Pirastro Cellisto Cello Rosin are compatible and commonly used with instruments of this quality to improve bow grip.

How should the Westbury Intermediate Cello be transported?

It should be transported in the included padded bag. This bag is designed to provide security and ease of movement for students travelling to lessons or rehearsals.

What is the benefit of the ebony fingerboard on this model?

Ebony is highly resistant to wear and provides a smooth surface for the fingers. This makes it more comfortable and durable than the cheaper woods often found on entry-level cellos.

Can a carbon fiber bow be used with this cello?

Yes, while it comes with a bulletwood bow, it can be paired with alternatives like a Coruss Carbon Bow or Primavera Composite Bow if the player prefers a different weight or response.

Gear article

Westbury Intermediate Cello Outfit 7/8 Size

The Westbury Intermediate Cello Outfit is a high-quality string instrument designed specifically for dedicated students transitioning from entry-level models. Featuring a hand-carved maple and spruce construction with durable ebony fittings, this 7/8 size cello provides a bridge for players who require a slightly more compact frame without sacrificing superior sound quality.

See live prices

Background and Design

The Westbury brand is positioned within the market to serve the needs of advancing students. The Intermediate Cello Outfit is specifically crafted to support the progression of learners who have outgrown beginner instruments but are not yet ready for a professional-grade investment. The 7/8 size is a strategic choice for players with smaller hands or shorter reach, providing the ergonomic comfort necessary for technical development.

The instrument is constructed using traditional methods, featuring a hand-carved maple and spruce body. This combination of tonewoods is the standard for orchestral string instruments, selected for its structural integrity and acoustic resonance. The use of hand-carving rather than factory pressing allows for better control over the thicknesses of the wood, which directly impacts the instrument's tonal response.

Key Features and Components

A defining characteristic of the Westbury Intermediate Cello is the use of ebony for the fittings, including the fingerboard and pegs. Ebony is highly valued in lutherie for its density and durability, ensuring that the components can withstand the friction of regular tuning and the physical wear of finger contact over time.

The 'outfit' designation indicates that the instrument is supplied with essential accessories to make it playable immediately. This includes:

Bulletwood Bow: A well-balanced bow featuring white horsehair, designed to provide consistent friction against the strings.
Padded Gig Bag: A protective soft case designed for secure transportation and basic protection against environmental changes.
Hand-Carved Body: Traditional spruce top and maple back and sides.

Tonal Character

Due to its hand-carved construction and selection of maple and spruce, the Westbury Intermediate Cello offers a superior sound quality compared to laminate or entry-level models. The spruce top provides clarity and high-frequency definition, while the maple back contributes to the warmth and projection of the lower registers. This balanced profile allows students to explore a wider dynamic range and develop their tonal palette as they tackle more complex repertoire.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the wider market, the Westbury Intermediate sits between budget-focused models like the Gear4Music Student series and higher-end workshop instruments such as the Stentor Messina. While the Gear4Music Student cellos (available in Full or 1/2 sizes) are designed for absolute beginners, the Westbury offers more sophisticated wood selection and carving.

In terms of accessories, the included bulletwood bow is a traditional alternative to modern composite options like the Primavera Composite or Coruss Carbon bows. Unlike the Stentor Harlequin series, which focuses on aesthetic variety through different colours, the Westbury Intermediate prioritises traditional craftsmanship and tonal fidelity for the serious student.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Westbury Intermediate Cello Outfit?: The outfit includes the 7/8 size cello, a well-balanced bulletwood bow with white horsehair, and a padded bag for transportation. It is designed as a complete package for the advancing student.
What materials are used for the body of the cello?: The instrument features a hand-carved maple and spruce body. These traditional tonewoods are chosen for their durability and their ability to produce superior sound quality.
Who is the 7/8 size Westbury cello designed for?: The 7/8 size is specifically designed for dedicated students who find a full-size cello too large but require a higher-quality instrument than a standard 3/4 model. It is ideal for players with smaller frames or hands.
Are the fittings on the Westbury Intermediate cello durable?: Yes, the instrument uses ebony fittings. Ebony is a dense, hard-wearing wood that ensures both longevity and a comfortable experience for the player during frequent use.
How does the Westbury Intermediate differ from a beginner cello?: It features hand-carved woods rather than laminated materials, providing better resonance. It is intended as an upgrade for students who have moved beyond the initial learning stages.
What type of bow comes with the outfit?: The outfit includes a bulletwood bow. Bulletwood is a traditional material used for student bows to provide a balanced feel and reliable performance.
Is the Westbury Intermediate Cello hand-carved?: Yes, the body is hand-carved from maple and spruce. This manufacturing process allows for better tonal control compared to machine-pressed instruments.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Westbury Intermediate Cello Outfit 7/8 Size is typically priced at approximately £1,226. This reflects its status as an intermediate-level instrument.
Does this cello require specific rosin?: While it can use various types, products like Pirastro Cellisto Cello Rosin are compatible and commonly used with instruments of this quality to improve bow grip.
How should the Westbury Intermediate Cello be transported?: It should be transported in the included padded bag. This bag is designed to provide security and ease of movement for students travelling to lessons or rehearsals.
What is the benefit of the ebony fingerboard on this model?: Ebony is highly resistant to wear and provides a smooth surface for the fingers. This makes it more comfortable and durable than the cheaper woods often found on entry-level cellos.
Can a carbon fiber bow be used with this cello?: Yes, while it comes with a bulletwood bow, it can be paired with alternatives like a Coruss Carbon Bow or Primavera Composite Bow if the player prefers a different weight or response.