Forte3D: 3D-printed cello receives $250,000 on “Shark Tank”

Forte3D, a startup specializing in 3D-printed musical instruments, has unveiled a cello that combines classic construction principles with additive manufacturing. One of its co-founders is Yale engineering student Elijah Lee. The company appeared on the US show “Shark Tank” and received a commitment of $250,000 – but on changed terms: investor Lori Greiner offered the capital for 16 percent of the company’s shares.

The project was triggered by Lee’s experiences with conventional cellos. These are considered expensive, delicate, and unwieldy to transport. Forte3D is therefore focusing on a new design rather than a pure replica. The aim is to better control the acoustic properties through geometry and material selection.

Technically, the instrument is based on a patented design. The front and back consist of flat carbon fiber panels; according to the team, the ribs and neck are 3D-printed and integrated with the panels. The shape and wall thicknesses can be adjusted to enable different sound profiles. At the same time, certain components remain classic in design, including the sound post, fingerboard, and bridge, in order to preserve the characteristic sound of a cello.

Carbon fiber and thermoplastics are used as a material mix. This is intended to make the instrument more resistant to temperature fluctuations, regular use, and the stresses of travel than wood, which can warp or break. Forte3D has also developed its own 3D printer that can produce a full-size cello in one piece.

According to Forte3D, instruments have been reviewed by Yo-Yo Ma and The Piano Guys, among others. US cellist and composer Mike Block ranked the model as the “best-sounding carbon fiber cello” he has ever played. Forte3D plans to use the funding to expand production and development of additional instruments: in addition to the cello, there is already a violin, and a viola and double bass are in the works. Lee’s long-term goal is to make instruments more widely available, especially for schools.