Csaba Szilvay

Cello ABC Book D

With a few exceptions, the songs in this book are introduced in positions where the melody can be played with natural harmonics. Playing the melodies with natural harmonics before using stopped fingering is of great benefit to the student to develop correct intonation. Playing melodies in harmonics is also very useful to help develop a good bowing style and clarity of sound. Before playing the melodies in the first (I) position, they should first be taught in the fourth (IV) position as this is a more natural position where the thumb is relaxed, fingers visible, and the stretch easier for a small hand. In Book B the student can play in 55 different places on the fingerboard, and in book C these ideas are further developed. In Book D the student will be fascinated to discover even more possibilities to transpose the beautiful melodies from all over the world.