I've been thinking about this for a long time. I know for a fact that I want to play a strings instrument and I've ruled out the viola and double bass. So, I'm left with the two other major instruments, the violin and cello. I love each and I've read up a little on both, but I still can't decide which to play. Finding a teacher isn't a problem. The person I've already picked has first(violin) seat for the orchestra in town, but don't let that influence you because she also teaches cello!

Note: I'm sorry if this is in the wrong place...I couldn't decide between General Discussion and here.

I hate to double post but....

I would like to have your opinion by the end of the week so I can decide and tell the teacher. Thank you!

If it was me, I'd choose cello, cos if you're gonna be playing for orchestras or ensembles, violins usually get the lowest pay! :P

Cellos all the way! I'd love to play one but I'm lacking finacially. Still, cello is the way to go.

Cello for sure!

Well you got to consider other things. I play the violin and from my experience here's a few other things you might want to consider:-

1. Violins are easier to carry than cellos (take into account how strong you are)
2. Which do you like more bass or treble clef?
3. It's easier to get into a violin section than a cello section of an orchestra if you have to audition for a place.
4. Females are generally better than males at violins so if you're male, you could be in a lot of female company (if you're a good player):P I think cellos are of equal numbers of each sex. There were only 4 boys in my violin section compared to 16 girls. 2 boys to 2-4 girls in my cello section.
5. If you like faster paced music with more notes, violin gives you that.
6. If you screw up, it's easier for the conductor to hear it if you're playing a cello rather than a violin (in an orchestra)
7. If you want to lead an entire orchestra, you'll have to play violin.
8. Violins mostly play the main tuneful parts of a piece whilst cello backs it up, but they can get the main tune as well.

It's kinda biased info, but cellos do get some really nice parts to play which sounds really rich in sound. I'd say violin cos I hate getting squished in a car with a cello.

Thank you all so much. I'm more confused about what I want to do than ever though. About two days ago I was sure that I wanted to play the violin. Now, some of the people that I respect on here are telling me to play the cello and I know they are much more experienced than me. @_@ I also want to thank you an-kun for listing those things to consider. That is helping me a little. I like the treble clef(I think it is easier to play), but I like the sound of the cello better. SO CONFUSED!

Edit: I also like to compose for the cello more so now I'm leaning back towards the cello. I'd like a few more opinions before I make a solid decision.

Edit II: I'm only thirteen so I doubt I'll be playing with a group of other strings instruments(right now anyway).

.....go cello! Usually there aren't enough celli in orchestra, but a variety of violins. 'Sides, with cello you have more room to maneuver while playing. But hey, it's your choice.

One more question before I decide. Is there a enough cello solo sheet music? Because like I said, I'm thirteen so I am not going to be in an orchestra now(or maybe not even later).

There's lots of solo cello pieces out there, it's just that you'd need to find it yourself. :P And why not join an orchestra? I'm sure there's a lot of youth orchestras around.

Okay, I think I've recieved all of the opinions I need to make my decision. I'm playing the CELLO! Thanks everyone. You all made a big difference. I was going to go for the violin for a while. Thanks!