CELLO REFERENCES
compiled by Bret Smith, 1996
This is a listing of some of the books available on the topic of cello teaching and technique. Some are oriented toward beginning instruction, others are more advanced. Call numbers are provided for each book.
Eisenberg, Maurice. Cello Playing of Today. London: Lavendar Publications, 1966.
Detailed discussion of all major aspects of cello playing. Extensive examples from the artist repertoire. For advanced players.
Horsfall, Jean. Teaching the Cello to Groups. London: Oxford University Press, 1974.
A guide to structuring and teaching a beginning cello class. Many valuable ideas about sequence, as well as equipment and day-to-day planning, seating, etc.
Matz, Rudolf. The Complete Cellist. New York: Alexander Broude, 1974.
In 3 volumes; vol. 1 consists of beginning lessons, from a private studio viewpoint, and includes valuable exercises for bow action, finger placement, and posture.
Potter, Louis. The Art of Cello Playing. Princeton: Summy-Birchard Music, 1980.
An excellent and comprehensive guide, useful for a teacher of cello group classes. Begins with first lessons and progresses to higher positions. Contains an excellent repertoire list. Highly recommended.
Rolland, Paul and Margaret Rowell. Prelude to String Playing. New York: Boosey and Hawkes, 1972.
Many photographs and innovative diagrams; particular emphasis on rhythmic motion as a precursor to actual playing. Covers neck positions with a variety of bowings, introduces thumb position. Excellent ideas for teachers of young beginning students.
Sazer, Victor. New Directions in Cello Playing. Los Angeles: Ofnote Publications, 1995.
Emhpasizes a physical approach to the cello influenced by martial arts- balance and lack of tension are stressed. Some unorthodox ideas about position, fingering, and bowing are explained; freedom from pain and development of "healthy" playing are the goals. Will probably establish some new standards for position and alignment. Advanced, but highly recommended.
Tortelier, Paul. How I Play, How I Teach. London: Chester Music, 1976.
Wimmer, Harry. The Joy of Cello Playing. New York: SeeSaw Music, 1986
Attractive and entertaining series of "master lessons" designed to correct and extend position, tone, balance, and bowing. For established to advanced players.
Young, Phyllis. Playing the String Game. Austin: University of Texas Press, 1978.
Young, Phyllis. The String Play. Austin: University of Texas Press, 1986.
Two essential books for the string teacher which provide numerous examples of creative teaching devices-- actual activities which introduce, correct, and reinforce solid playing principles. "The String Game" uses the metaphor of games, while the "String Play" is designed for group activities, using the metaphor of drama and theater. Highly recommended.
Cello Methods and Etudes
This is a list of some useful sources for technical material. There are many more!
Cossman, Bernhard. Concert Studies, Studies for the Development of Agility of Fngers. (International)
Duport, Jean Louis. 21 Etudes. (Schirmer)
Gruetzmacher, Friedrich. Technology of Cello Playing, op. 38. vol. 1 without thumb position, vol. 2 with thumb position. (International)
Kreutzer, Rudolf. Luigi Silva, ed. 42 Studies. (Zanibon)
Kummer, F. A. Violoncello Method. (Schirmer)
Popper, David. 15 Easy Studies (first position), Preparatory Studies op. 76, The High School of Cello Playing op. 73. (International)