Je commence le Violoncelle

An introduction for children and an opening to ensemble music.

"The path of a thousand leagues begins with one step" (Chinese adage)

The approach exposed in "I begin the cello" is not a method in the classical sense of the term. Rather, it is about finding the materials for an opening to music in which the teacher and the student, together with each other, trace a path of creation. May this path lead the young apprentice of today to the cellist of tomorrow, the one who will be able to invent with mastery the games of his instrument.

As elsewhere, bad habits weigh heavily and for a long time. Therefore, the first steps of an initiation to music are essential: it is an unavoidable encounter with the teacher but also with the instrument and its technique.

For me, teaching is not only a transmission of knowledge and experience but above all a human encounter. It should respect the rhythm of each student. The content of this book can be used freely in this spirit.

You will find in the first part exercises and pieces written by me in a chosen progression. The second part contains short and easy works: adaptations of folk songs, classical pieces, but also contemporary compositions written for the present book. Thus our young friend will find within his reach classical and modern sounds that he will approach alone or with his musical companions.

A big thank you to my composer friends who agreed to help me. Finally, may all this booklet be a tribute to André NAVARRA, this great artist who left this world in 1988, my very dear Master to whom I owe so much. And may Ivry GITLIS, this marvelous violinist, find here the expression of my gratitude.

Barbara MARCINKOWSKA