Teaching Points
Possums at Sea
Pieces 1 – 4
- Consolidates close 2nd and 3rd fingers (high 2) on all strings
- Introduction of 4th finger
- Continuous string crossing action
- Up-bow staccato
- 1st finger hop between strings
- Contrasting dynamics
- Mixed articulation, slurs and bow strokes
- Tempo changes
Pieces 5 – 8
- Close 1st and 2nd fingers (low 2) on all strings
- Chain slurs
- Quick down-bow retakes
- Simple open string double stops
Pieces 9 – 12
- Combinations of high and low 2nd finger patterns in D major/B minor
- Hook stroke
- Greater variety of bowings and articulation
- Fingered double stops
- 6/8 time signature
Pieces 13 – 16
- Combinations of high & low 2nd finger patterns in G major/ A minor
- Introduction of low 1st finger on all strings
- Dotted crotchet/quaver rhythmic patterns
- Zigzag bow stroke
- Extended double stop sections
Pieces 17 – 20
- Close 3rd and 4th fingers (high 3) on all strings
- Trills
- Extended duration of pieces to build stamina and concentration
- Consolidation of technical skills acquired in previous chapters
Navigation Charts
- The Navigation Charts provide scales and arpeggios to support the teaching points in each chapter.
- The Dorian Mode on G is included as a simple introduction to the minor scale.
- The Dominant 7th arpeggios assist the student in correct finger placement of the 2nd finger in the mixed high and low patterns.
- Chromatic scales are given only in ascending form to avoid the complexity of enharmonic notation at this early stage.