Why I Started Playing the Cello: The Allure of Daiki Tsuneta and the Depths of the Cello

This is quite sudden, but what made you start playing a musical instrument? You may have learned since childhood and started because you wanted a hobby, or started because you wanted to get closer to an artist you admire... There may be many different reasons.

I started playing the cello about three years ago and the reason I started playing was to get closer to an artist I admired! That artist of my dreams is creator Daiki Tsuneta, best known as the leader of the rock band King Gnu.
I would like to introduce some recommended products for cello beginners who want to start playing the cello after learning more about him!

Who is Daiki Tsuneta?

Daiki Tsuneta (born May 15, 1992) is a Japanese musician and music producer. He is the organizer of the rock band King Gnu, a musician in the band MILLENNIUM PARADE, and the creative label PERIMETRON.

Daiki Tsuneta as a Cello Player

Daiki Tsuneta began playing the cello at the age of five and went on to study cello at the Department of Instrumental Music at Tokyo University of the Arts (withdrew). He has a background as a cello player at the International Chamber Music Academy organized by conductor Seiji Ozawa.

He created a piece of music and performed it as show music at the fashion show N. Hoolywood Compile Fall 2020 Collection held on February 4, 2020 (local time) in New York, USA. When I first listened to this performance at that time, I was astonished by his incredibly beautiful cello tone and his spirited and shocking power of expression. Having only heard the cello in classical music, I was astonished by his talent as a cello player, and at the same time, I learned about how deep the cello is as an instrument. You should not miss that performance!

■ N. Hoolywood Compile Fall 2020 Collection

In addition, the song “N. Hoolywood Compile Fall 2020 Collection,” which was created as show music, was released as an album for distribution on April 3, 2020, and a music video was also released.

■ Daiki Tsuneta Show Music Album
『N.HOOLYWOOD COMPILE IN NEW YORK COLLECTION』

■ Daiki Tsuneta - N.HOOLYWOOD COMPILE IN NEW YORK COLLECTION

I decided to take up the cello after hearing him perform for the N. HOOLYWOOD COMPILE FALL2020 COLLECTION show, and I started playing the following year! I was so moved to be able to hear him play the cello live at the “Closing Ceremony” stadium tour held in June 2023. The video of that performance is available on his Instagram account, and it is a performance of the song “Closing Ceremony” by King Gnu. Please take a peek!

■ King Gnu Stadium Tour“CEREMONY” Closing Ceremony

Now you should be tempted to start playing the cello! Recommended Products

Playtech / PVC244 Cello 4/4

This PVC 244 cello set from Playtech comes complete with a bow, pine rosin, soft case, tuner, and endpin stopper, and everything else you need to start playing the cello! This cello is designed for beginners, but the use of veneer wood gives it a deep and rich sound that is distinctive to the cello!
The technical staff inspects each item individually before shipping, and the set comes with a 3-year warranty that covers aftercare after purchase! Beginners can buy it without worry.

Playtech / PSC100 Cello Strings Steel 4/4 Set

Playtech PSC100 steel cello strings with excellent value for price! I recommend this product when changing cello strings.

Playtech / VCC44 Cello Hard Case

The VCC44 cello hard case from Playtech is perfect for carrying around or for storing at home! The straps allow you to carry it on your back like a backpack, and the wheels and carrying handle make it easy to transport. The top of the case also has a space for storing small items!

Now, I hope that I have conveyed the allure of Mr. Tsuneda and the deep depths of the cello. Although the hurdle to purchasing a cello is quite high, Sound House strives to inspect and provide after-support so that beginners can purchase a cello with peace of mind. Please be the first to get one and start practicing! I will practice hard too!