Cello da spalla

Yes... this seldom seen and heard instrument will play, again... 

A small-scale cello that sits against the shoulder and is played like a violin will make its London debut as part of a programme from the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (OAE) on 25 March at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre.

The Belgian violinist, violist and conductor Sigiswald Kuijken (pictured above), who rediscovered and revived the instrument a decade ago, will direct and perform the solo part. Kuijken’s instrument was made for him by the luthier Dmitry Badiarov in 2004 and based on historical models and documents.