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Thumb Position for the Cello, Book Two

by Cassia Harvey

Instrumentation
Cello
Publisher
C. Harvey Publications
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Cover of Thumb Position for the Cello, Book Two
Cover courtesy of C. Harvey Publications

About this piece

This book continues the study of thumb position on the cello with exercises that work on 'low' second finger. The exercises are more difficult than those in Thumb Position for the Cello, Book One, and thumb position on the G string is introduced. As in Book One, getting into thumb position from the lower positions is reviewed in every exercise. This book could be studied along with Thumb Position School for the Cello.

Technical overview

An advanced cello thumb position method book that focuses on shifting in and out of thumb position.

Technical focus

  • Thumb Position

Level rubric

Early Advanced

Left Hand

  • Fully integrated thumb position; scales/arpeggios on A & D strings.
  • Smooth shifts into/out of thumb position for sustained high notes.
  • Frequent advanced double stops with rapid, coordinated shifts.
  • Accurate ornamentation (trills, turns, grace notes), even in double stops.
  • Expressively adjust intonation for chord balance.
  • Handle fast runs and large leaps precisely.
  • Introduction to false harmonics.

Right Hand

  • Virtuoso bow strokes: controlled up/down‑bow staccato, deliberate ricochet & well‑shaped sautillé.
  • Wide tone palette via precise bow adjustments.
  • Explore advanced effects (col legno, sul ponticello) as needed.
  • Capable of both powerful fortissimo and delicate soft notes.
  • Rapid switching among strokes in cadenzas/virtuosic passages.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Apply rhythmic freedom & rubato to shape movements and cadenzas.
  • Personal interpretation with nuanced phrasing & subtle dynamics.
  • Mature tone and phrasing for solo and ensemble settings.
  • Demonstrate advanced ensemble leadership with visual cues.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.