The Role of the Cello in the 20th-Century Rock Music

The focus of this article is the actualization of the cello in the rock music of the 20th century and further performance modifications associated with this instrument in the 21st century. The article examines changes in the design features of the instrument itself (electric cello), the birth of cello rock (Electric Light Orchestra) and the cello boom in rock music in the 1990s-2000s (Apocalyptica and other bands), and from this perspective, it touches upon some aspects of creative work and features of the performing manner of some rock group musicians. Particular attention is paid to the creative activity of the Balkan duo 2CELLOS. Having done a detailed historical and cultural review of this musical phenomenon, the author draws a conclusion about the organic inclusion of cello rock in the musical culture of the 20th — 21st centuries.