Explore the Lost Music Culture: Uncovering the History Behind Forgotten Sounds Of The Early Cello. The cello is a stringed instrument that has been a part of musical culture for centuries. Its distinct sound can be found in classical compositions, jazz numbers, and even popular music. However, just like with all great things, the earliest cello wasn't always cello we know today. While the violoncello da spalla may have been forgotten by all classical music professionals, its history and influenc