Rondo Cello strings are a newer release from the world-renowned string makers Thomastik. They have arrived to Simply for Strings with wonderful reviews from professional players, so we were incredibly excited to give them a go.
Thomastik describe Rondo strings as powerful, focussed, yet sweet, delicate, noble and reminiscent of gut. They are more flexible compared to their other strings, giving a greater versatility and more dynamic response. Bow control is improved with these strings, offering increased range of volume and expression.
Michael had a chance to try these strings with his own 7/8th Jay Haide cello. Here is what he had to say!
“They are the most dynamic strings I’ve ever played. I love Versum in both its forms but Rondo stands out even above those strings. Rondo cello strings give a greater range of dynamics, both in volume and colour, than most other strings on the market. They sing beautifully and respond very nicely to demands of the bow.
I can play closer to the bridge with Rondo strings than any other string I’ve used, and they have a very consistent sound quality on every note. I think a great recommendation for these strings is in this story: one of my adult daughters (not even knowing that I had changed strings) came into our home while I was playing with my study door closed, and when I came out she said, ‘those strings sound amazing!’
“Rondo cello strings have an excellent level of harmonic resonance, with a brilliance that allows the overtones to ring freely, making good intonation very easy to find. Their balance makes double stopping and chords beautiful and enjoyable. I found these strings a delight to play on. They actually increase the enjoyment of interaction with my cello, bringing out its personality and allowing me to express mine. My wife called them happy strings!”
Thomastik Rondo A and D strings have a carbon steel core and multi-alloy winding. The G and C strings have a spiral core and tungsten/chrome winding. They are available in 4/4 in a Medium tension, which is suitable for use on 7/8th instruments as well.
Rondo cello strings are identified as follows:
- Tailpiece end: dark green (“Basil”) silk winding
- Peg ends: orange (“Tangerine”)
- Individual strings are identified by the ball colour:
- A = brass
- D = copper
- G = chrome
- C = brass
About Thomastik Strings:
“Music strings of the highest quality – this is both the incentive and obligation of Thomastik-Infeld. Based in Vienna, we have been developing and producing strings with the vastest range of tone colors since 1919. Our progressive string developments have revolutionized the music world repeatedly. 100 years of experience, pioneering research in the field of string technology and material science as well as groundbreaking developments in mechanical engineering create tone and inspiration day after day. Whether for bowed, plucked or world music instruments – our Viennese strings impress on streets and stages all over the world and are played enthusiastically by musicians of all genres.”
About the Simply for Strings Cello String Library:
Simply for Strings has created a trial ‘String Library’ for cellists to visit on appointment and try different string sets and/or combinations, so that we can help with their search for the sound and response they need. Here you can try before you buy, with our guidance and assistance. In this appointment, we’ll have a discussion with you before we start fitting up to three different sets on your cello. We let you trial the strings in-store to determine which strings may suit you and your needs best. And if you need, we can play your cello for you, so you can hear it as both listener and player. It’s an obligation free appointment, all you need to do is bring your cello, and prepare to fall in love with some new strings!
Read more about our Cello String Library here and visit our blog for more cello resources.
