A live performance is our only reference

cello

A live performance is our only reference. The cello is by far the most romantic instrument in the orchestra. Its rich, harmonious sound most closely matches the human voice. Master builders, or luthiers, centuries ago carefully created and selected materials that produced a sound that was not only pleasing to the ear, but the soul as well. The master luthier knew the importance of all the elements combined — wall thickness, curvature, type of wood and joints. Each element, unique to a particular instrument, influences the sound.

challenge

The cello can be compared to the Hemholtz resonator

The cello can be compared to the Hemholtz resonator that is not rigid and not tuned to a single frequency. It stores, amplifies and projects the energy in a wide range of frequencies generated by vibrating strings, the bridge, and sound post in the cello.

The nucleus of the Viva sound is based upon the rich timbers and wide, dynamic range — characteristics that can be found in the sound of the cello. We have faithfully worked to capture and reproduce all the complex nuances of this sound using the cello as a sonic reference when we ‘voice’ the equipment to make critical adjustments to the electronic and mechanical aspects of the design.

By trying to understand the deeper meaning of what the great master was doing, we gain knowledge that is paramount to our work. We do not simply try replicate, but rather interpret what we learn to use as guidance in improving the sonic characteristics of what we at Viva Audio build.

Download
Bach solo, 88 Mb .flac
cellist

Maxim Beitan

Maxim Beitan the cellist

Latvian/Russian born 1986. Winner of 16 international music competitions including 5 Grand Prix

education
  • Musical College, Latvia
  • The Royal College of Music, London
    Higher Education Degree
  • Conservatorio della Svizzera Italiana,
    Italy Master’s Degree
  • CSI Lugano Soloist Diploma, current
teachers
  • Irina Titarenko, Johannes Goritzki, Ivo Pogorelich,
    Natalia Gutman
master classes
  • When I heard Maxim’s performance, I was overwhelmed with positive emotions. Even at such young age he possesses the qualities of a great artist! The most beautiful part is that he retains astonishing technical skills and manages to combine those skills with his emotionality, passion, and creativity.
    Daniel Shafran , Natalia Gutman, Josef Feigelson, Johannes Goritzki, Peter Bruns, Bernard Greenhouse and Maria Kliegel
cello

The Cello

The Cello by 1698 David Tecchler, Rome, Italy

  • Two-piece back or quarter-cut maple
  • Light, medium-width flame descending from the centre joint
  • Ribs and scroll of similar stock
  • Table of four pieces of spruce of irregular, fine grain
  • Varnish of golden orange colour over a grey gold ground
  • Cut down at the upper bouts