The results of  ABC Classic and ABC Jazz’s  2023 Classic 100 Countdown have been revealed: Australia’s favourite instrument is the cello.

With over 170,000 votes cast for 326 different instruments, Your Favourite Instrument has been the second-most popular ABC Classic Countdown poll in 22 years. With piano and violin ranking as second and third respectively, the cello reigned supreme in every Australian state and territory.

A cello leans against a white chair in front of a clean white wall.

Photo © Yan Krukau/Pexels

The cello is lauded for its rich timbre and versatility across its four-octave range. The weapon of choice for Jacqueline du Pré, Yo-Yo Ma and Steven Isserlis, works featuring the cello have often appeared in the top five positions of ABC Classic 100 Countdowns past, with Elgar’s Cello Concerto placing 5th in 2007’s ranking of concertos, and 1st in 2011’s ranking of the best 20th century music. 

“This year we went on a journey that expanded our musical horizons and connected with audiences far and wide,” said ABC Classic and ABC Jazz Content Manager Kat McGuffie.