From Violin to Cello: Tackling Rossini’s ‘L’Esule’ | Cello Cover + Journey

13.04.2025
Welcome back to the channel — or if you’re new here, I’m a cello beginner with just six months under my belt. Today, I’m sharing something really special: my journey learning Rossini’s L’esule … on cello!

Some of you might remember my earlier attempt at the violin version of this piece 2 days ago, please go check out that video. Let’s just say… it did not go smoothly. I’m still working on it.

But when I discovered this cello adaptation in D minor (with that gorgeous D major modulation!), something clicked. Even though I’m brand-new to cello, the richer, lower register and the way the phrasing sits on the strings felt so much more intuitive for me.

I’ll be honest: tackling shifts from 1st to 5th position this early was intimidating, but Rossini’s drama practically demands those soaring lines. I devoted time to annotate the score carefully with the positions and fingerings.

This recording isn’t perfect — I’m still learning! — but I’m proud of how far I’ve come in half a year. Thanks to my cello teacher for laying a solid foundation on positions and shifting.

If you’re a fellow late-blooming cellist (or just love Romantic-era music!), I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment below, and don’t forget to like/subscribe if you want to follow my cello adventures. Let’s dive in!

#cellobeginner #romanticperiod #rossini #italianaria