Cello · Beginner
First Position
All four strings, fingers 1–4
First position is a starting hand position on the cello, using fingers 1 through 4 close to the nut. Learn its note patterns to play simple melodies and begin scale practice; other keys and wider ranges may require extensions or shifts.
Free lesson sample · No account needed
Play D–E–F–G in cello first position
In ordinary first position on the D string, the open string is D, first finger is E, second finger is F natural, and fourth finger is G. This pattern contrasts the whole steps D–E and F–G with the half step E–F, without a hand extension.
Before you start: Start with a tuned D string and a relaxed left hand. Use a comfortable tempo, around one note per second. Plucking is fine while you concentrate on pitch; do not stretch through discomfort.
- Ascending: D3 (open / 0) → E3 (1) → F3 (2) → G3 (4).
- Descending: G3 (4) → F3 (2) → E3 (1) → D3 (0).
Try it step by step
- Play the open D. Place first finger for E, then second finger a half step higher for F natural.
- Place fourth finger for G. Let the hand retain a comfortable curved shape rather than reaching only with the fingertip.
- Play the complete ascent and descent, one note per beat. Pause between repetitions and release unnecessary thumb pressure.
Check your answer and understand why
The finger sequence is 0–1–2–4, then 4–2–1–0. D–E is a whole step, E–F a half step, and F–G a whole step. Third finger, between F and G, would play F sharp; it is not used in this four-note pattern.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Second finger is F natural here, not F sharp. Do not substitute a D-major fingering pattern.
- An open D does not prove the fingered notes are in tune. Listen to each note and adjust gently rather than squeezing harder.
Before this module
What this module covers
The G String
The D String
The A String
The C String
String Crossings
What comes next
Practise with a free reference
- Cello first-position chart
A lower-position reference only; it does not show every accidental, extension or shift in this module.
Planning this part of your learning
- Where should I start with first position?
- The curriculum places Getting Started before this module. Review those topics if they are unfamiliar. The first lesson is “The G String”: Normal first-position geography on the G string. The order is a study guide, not proof that every learner needs the same pace.
- How long is the first position module?
- The 5 listed lessons total approximately 79 minutes of material. That estimate describes lesson content, not the practice time needed to become comfortable with all four strings, fingers 1–4. Revisit one task at a time and use feedback from a teacher where physical technique is involved.
- What can I try here without an account?
- The complete “Play D–E–F–G in cello first position” exercise, its worked answer and common mistakes are free on this page. The lesson list and linked public tools are also open. A free account includes the complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five lessons in music theory, with saved progress and no expiry. Later lessons require the relevant paid package.
Open this module in Arco
Lessons include the synchronised staff, keyboard, and fingerboard view, recorded cello playback, and quizzes that track your answers. The complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five music theory lessons are free with an account, including saved progress and no time limit. Later lessons require the relevant paid package. Public samples do not assess physical technique or certify exam readiness.