UC Santa Barbara

The purpose of this document is to study prominent and influential literature on cello pedagogy and combine the most useful aspects of each method along with additional research and my personal experience to create a comprehensive new teaching method. Investigative research spans from the earliest cello treatises of the eighteenth century to publications from the last decade. The new teaching method includes the position of the body while holding the instrument, left hand fundamentals, bow arm fundamentals, intonation, shifting, bow strokes, vibrato, and musical expression for beginning to advanced cello technique with an emphasis on the vital beginning foundation. Additionally, I will present a catalog of cello etudes/studies and repertoire, as well as discuss matters related to practicing and the student-teacher relationship.Similar to the art of music performance, the art of teaching requires dedicated study. The study of cello pedagogy is essential for building the next generation of successful cellists. This new teaching method adds to the research and development of instrumental pedagogy essential for the evolution of classical music.