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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Finger Exercises for the Cello, Book Two

by Cassia Harvey

Instrumentation
Cello
Publisher
C. Harvey Publications
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Cover of Finger Exercises for the Cello, Book Two
Cover courtesy of C. Harvey Publications

About this piece

Finger Exercises for the Cello, Book Two trains the intermediate cellist’s left hand in strength and agility. The book begins with extended first position and then covers fourth, second, and third positions. Double stop exercises are included to encourage finger coordination. This book can be followed by Finger Exercises for the Cello, Book Three, and works well with Fourth Position for the Cello, Second Position for the Cello, and Third Position for the Cello.

Technical overview

This intermediate cello technique book helps you play with faster fingers and better intonation in positions.

Level rubric

Intermediate

Left Hand

  • Fluent in positions 1–4 with confident shifts & reliable intonation.
  • Introduce 5th position via scales/études.
  • Learn tenor clef for higher passages.
  • Early exposure to thumb position basics.
  • Refine combined shifting & extensions.
  • Advance double stops (two‑note chords).
  • Refine vibrato for expressive shaping.

Right Hand

  • High control over multiple bow strokes.
  • Advanced spiccato for fast passages; reliable sautillé.
  • Apply martelé at frog and mid‑bow.
  • Execute rapid string crossings with minimal arm movement.
  • Adjust contact point to modulate tone.
  • Introduce complex bow patterns & chord rolling.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Faster tempos & varied meter challenges.
  • Tackle compound meters, intricate ornaments & syncopation.
  • Deepen expressive phrasing; analyze piece structure.
  • Clear dynamic contrasts; introduce slight rubato.
  • Enhance ensemble sensitivity.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

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