LibGuides: Cello: Technique

Recommended Resources

Technique Books in the Allen Library (selections)

Cellist's Guide to the Core Technique by G. Jean Smith
Call Number: MT302 S64 [Allen shelves]
Publication Date: 1974
The Core method includes warm-up, tone, scales, shifting, facility, and strength. Detailed explanations with accompanying exercises cover all the basics of cello technique. Provides preparation and practical applications for using the method.
High School of Cello Playing; 40 Etudes For Cello Solo by David Popper
Call Number: MT305 P83 [Allen shelves]
Publication Date: 1945
Daily etudes Starker hailed as being able to solve any technical problem.
Rosindust by Cornelia Watkins
Call Number: MT300 W37 R6 [Allen shelves]
Publication Date: 2008
A healthy approach to learning the cello that promotes self-awareness, problem-solving skills and creative thinking.
Violoncello Technique by Mark Yampolsky
Call Number: MT305 Y35 [Allen shelves]
Publication Date: 1971
Scales and arpeggios in all their various bowed, fingered, and rhythmic combinations, with exercises progressing in difficulty and encompassing four octaves.

Discover More

Browse the Catalog

Browse by subject in the catalog, for example:

Cello > Instruction and study
Cello > Methods
Cello > Orchestral excerpts
Cello > Studies and exercises

String instruments > Instruction and Study

Browse the Shelves

There are many more technique books available in the library! Use these call numbers to find more:

Call Number	Topic
MT259	String technique (general)
MT300	Cello technique (general)
MT302	Systems and methods
MT305	Studies and exercises (general)
MT306	Orchestral studies
MT307	Bowing
MT308	Positions
MT309	Chords
MT310	Other studies (fingering, tone, etc.)
MT312	Studies for 2 cellos
MT314-MT318	Instructive editions

Browse Professional Journals

Professional journals are a great place to learn from experts about the most recent developments in your field.
Search articles online or browse the Allen Library current periodicals (near the Allen entrance). See especially:

American Suzuki Journal by Suzuki Association of the Americas
Call Number: ML1 ASJ
Available in print only.
International Musician by American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada
Available in print (last two years on current periodicals shelf) and online (2003 - present).
The Strad
Most recent issues available online only.
Strings
Most recent issues available online only.
Symphony by American Symphony Orchestra League
Summer–Fall 2021 available free online. Other issues available in print only (Current Periodicals or Bound Periodicals, ML1 S98).

Suggest a Resource

Know of a resource you think should be added to this guide? Let us know!

Want to suggest we purchase something new? Contact Tracey Rudnick (rudnick@hartford.edu).