Dotzauer, J Friedrich - Method for Cello, Volume 1 - Cello solo - edited by Johnannes Klingenberg - Carl Fischer Edition

I got the delivery faster than I expected and the book arrived in great condition. So far I am enjoying going through this beginner's book.

This is the method I grew up with, and I didn't appreciate how sensible it was at the time. It starts in C major, which makes sense to piano people. Most of the more modern string methods start with D major, which makes more sense for violinists. The method embeds a lot of music theory and cello technique in a gradual way. You will work through etudes in most of the string-friendly major keys and be introduced to several minor keys as well. There are etudes in several time signatures and with interesting rhythmic figures. Volume One is almost completely in first position; it covers bow distribution, string crossings, and dynamics. The absolute best thing about this method is that most of the etudes have duet parts. You can work on your ensemble skills and matching intonation with your teacher right from the very beginning. It's great to develop your ears and your musical communication. Several of the etudes are pretty enough to include in a recital program.