Wilhelm Rundström – Grade V Strad Model Concert Cello – Beijing 2026

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We have a professional level cello that is built in the Yang’s Beijing workshop and overseen by master luthier Jinlong. The instrument is made in the Stradivarius model, and the Strad f hole cuts are excellent to study. They are cut perfectly with knife work and back angles. The cello features a slightly broader waist and major width (437.5 mm) by about 2.0 mm which adds to the large sound. The upper bout is very sensible, allowing for ease of play to get around the cello in the higher positions. This instrument might be perfect for the slightly smaller player looking for a huge sound.

The cello has beautiful spruce top plate. All of the woods are choice in flame and grain. The spruce top plate has straight tight grain, consistent throughout and slightly increases in grain width on both flanks of the cello. The maple ribs are a Wow! They are choice in their flame matching that of the back. Remember, cello ribs are generally 2.7 to 3.4 millimeters thick and are heated and moistened to bend into the exact shaped need to attach to the corner blocks. This is all done before varnishing. There are small cut willow linings that are bent in the same manor and added to the top and the bottom on the interior of each cello rib. The linings help hold the rib in place and give the rib more glueing surface to attach to the back and the top plates. The rib work, interior block carving, and the entire interior of the corpus is clean and very well constructed. The two-piece maple back is carved with attention to details in the corners, purfling, and the perimeter lips of the instrument. The maple flame is medium-width and jumps in my eye. The oil varnish is classic in its color, orange/red/brown varnish all on a golden amber ground. The cello is excellent and for me and from a musician’s perspective the cello is responsive and very generous in sound.

Corpus 760.0 mm., Major Width 437.5 mm., Minor Width 339.0 mm., Rib Height 117.0 mm.

This cello has a great response and a wide tonal palette with power and drive. The sound is slightly reedy which adds a different color to the overall tone. It’s neat. The A and D strings are exceptional, while the G and C add more color and warmth to the overall sound. The projection makes me sit up and notice the cello. The cello is comfortable to play and will be an excellent choice for a serious orchestral performer.