The new 3 Series Coupe, the "BMW 335i Coupe," arrived in September 2006.
photo=BMW

Cello Players Visit Trial Play Sessions

Can you imagine someone complaining that a computer is too fast?
I apologize for not starting with cars, but I don't think such a person exists. Someone who finds the communication speed too fast to keep up with? Such a person probably doesn't use a computer at all.

I'm terrible with computers, but as you can see, I use them out of necessity. If asked whether I prefer the future of ubiquity or the analog past, I might still choose the latter, but even someone like me is moved by the newness, including the high speed, when buying a new PC and starting a new OS.

This seems even less related to cars, but I'm a clumsy cello player with five years of experience. Despite my lack of skill, I have a strong appreciation for fine instruments, and I used to frequent cello trial play events. These were organized by major instrument retailers, where you could play and purchase string instruments from around the world. It's similar to a car dealership's test drive event for new models.

Most of the instruments available were new cellos from Europe or China, but occasionally, a delicate old instrument from around the 19th century would be showcased as a highlight of the event. With a dedicated store employee attending to you, the atmosphere could feel quite intimidating.

And there I would show up, an adult who had just started the first position of the Werner cello method, complete with my "own bow." I must admit, it was rather audacious. You might expect me to play Elgar, but instead, I'd play "Hamachidori" (The Little Bird in the Shore).

Based on the 3 Series sedan, 100% of the body panels are unique to the coupe.
photo=BMW

In Cello Terms, In Engine Terms

But thanks to those experiences, I was able to encounter many different cellos. From that experience, I came to believe that a fine cello is like a fine engine. We're getting closer to BMW, aren't we?

There are instruments that make you say, "Wow, amazing!" just by playing the open strings.
In essence, they are fast. Even with a slight bow movement or minimal contact, a loud sound immediately emerges. There's no delay. Compared to a cheap cello like the one I use, it feels as if the sound starts to emerge even before I move the bow.

It's the difference between a truck and a sports car. Technically, this is called having "good articulation," but in engine terms, it's precisely about good throttle response. It might also be akin to a sensitive woman.