Pre-Twinklers
The youngest beginners are led through a series of progressive steps that build the skills necessary to be able to hold the bow, take the bow to the string and play with the bow on the string. Students learn to focus, feel the musical pulse, clap rhythms, bow, sit with and move around their cello, hold the bow, play pizzicato, and ultimately play The Twinkle Theme and the 5 variations. At this point they are ready to begin Suzuki Book 1 and the cello-playing journey has begun.
This process takes time and patience, from both student and parent, however everything the student is able to do on the cello is a skill they have learnt - no one is born being able to play the cello! - and this is worth celebrating.
Level 1 Beginners
The youngest beginners follow the learning process presented in the Suzuki method.
Older beginners use a combination of methods, described in the Teaching Methods section, and note reading is introduced from the beginning.
Level 1:-Suzuki Book 1, 1st position, introduction to backward and forward extensions, introduction to the concepts of bow distribution, tonilization, quarter and eighth note rhythmic subdivision and one octave scales.
Level 2 Beginners
Mastery of Level 1 beginner technique is required before Level 2 material can be attempted.
Level 2:- Suzuki Book 2, shifting to 2nd and 4th position, more extensions, introduction to the concepts of varying tone production through combinations of bow pressure, speed and contact point, more complex rhythmic subdivision, bowing techniques and two octave scales.
Intermediate Players
Mastery of Levels 1 and 2 beginner technique is required before Intermediate Level can be attempted, whatever the age or previous playing experience. Technique is further developed through the weekly assignment of scales played in bowing patterns, the introduction of method books by Piatti, Deak and Dotzauer and by beautiful repertoire.
Intermediate Level:-Suzuki Books 3-5, vibrato, shifting to 5th position, introduction to the middle positions, tenor clef and 3 octave scales.
Advanced Players
Mastery of Intermediate Level is required before Advanced Level can be attempted, whatever the age or previous playing experience. At Advanced Level the focus is on learning classic cello repertoire, more studies and developing musicality. High School Juniors who plan to take college music scholarship or admittance auditions should be preparing early as applications require the preparation of challenging repertoire, and auditions take place early Senior year.
Advanced Level:-Suzuki Books 6-8, middle to thumb positions and 3 - 4 octave scales.
Mature Players
If you have always wanted to learn the cello but have never found the time to start, I encourage you to reach out and discuss the possibilities. It is never to late to learn! I have taught many mature students and enjoy the fresh perspective they bring to the experience of learning and playing. As my teaching approach focuses on using the natural movements within each student's capabilities, I am happy to work with you to see what is possible and what feels the most comfortable for you.
Lesson Length
Pre-Twinklers:- 30 minutes consisting of 15-20 minutes of activities and playing and 10 minutes of Parent Education. Playing time increases as focus and cello skills increase.
Level 1 Beginners:- 30 minutes
Level 2 Beginners:- 45 minutes
Mature Beginners:- 60 minutes
Intermediate:- 60 minutes
Advanced:- 60-90 minutes