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Tenths for the Cello, Book One

by Cassia Harvey

Instrumentation
Cello
Publisher
C. Harvey Publications

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Cover of Tenths for the Cello, Book One
Cover courtesy of C. Harvey Publications

About this piece

This study of tenths on the cello begins with putting first finger where the third finger would be in the octave hand position. The book uses strength and placement exercises to train the hand in shifting with tenth double stops. Representing one of the most difficult aspects of cello technique, tenths appear in the Haydn Cello Concerto in D major and the Prokofiev Sinfonia Concertante. This book, as well as Tenths for the Cello, Book Two, can help the advanced cellist prepare for tenths before they appear in the concert literature. The books can also be used as supplements for those already playing tenths in repertoire.

Technical overview

This advanced cello double stop book teaches tenths, giving you essential cello technique, better intonation, and spectacular hand strength!

Technical focus

  • Double Stops

Level rubric

Advanced

Left Hand

  • Unrestricted fingerboard operation.
  • Effortless high‑register passages with thumb position.
  • Execute large leaps, rapid shifts & fast runs with precise intonation.
  • Render double stops with clarity and even vibrato.
  • Crisp, stylistically appropriate ornamentation (trills, turns, mordents).
  • Instinctive micro‑adjustments in intonation for expressiveness.
  • False harmonics in low positions

Right Hand

  • Complete command of all bow strokes at any tempo/dynamic.
  • Comfortable execution of virtuoso passages (sautillé, intricate ricochet).
  • Tone projection from whisper‑quiet to fortissimo.
  • Integrate advanced bow patterns with expressive phrasing.
  • Demonstrate technical precision with a broad dynamic range.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Interpret large‑scale structures with nuanced pacing and rhythmic freedom.
  • Highly refined phrasing with subtle note grouping & expressive rubato.
  • Convey emotional depth and stylistic authenticity.
  • Incorporate personal interpretive choices while meeting stylistic demands.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.