Teaching Points

  • Introduce each open string
  • 4/4 time signature
  • Simple crotchet/minim/quaver rhythmic patterns
  • String crossing
  • Up-bow lifts for elbow follow-through
  • Down-bow retakes
  • Basic dynamic markings
  • Introduce 1st finger on each string
  • Tremolo, crescendo and diminuendo markings
  • Slower tempos for development of longer bows and tone production
  • Introduce 2nd and 3rd fingers (violin and viola) or 3rd and 4th fingers (cello) on upper 2 strings
  • 1st finger string jumps
  • 2-note up-bow continuous slurs
  • 2-note stopped slurs (preparation for hook stroke)
  • Dotted minims
  • Quick down-bow re-takes
  • Ascending and descending 1 – 2 3 (violin and viola) or 1 – 3 4 (cello) finger patterns
  • Introduce 2nd and 3rd fingers (violin and viola) or 3rd and 4th fingers (cello) on lower 2 strings
  • 3/4 time signature
  • Left-hand pizzicato
  • 3-note continuous slurs
  • Staccato and marcato bow strokes