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Cello Repertoire Initiative

The 'Mary Had a Little Lamb' Book for Cello

by Cassia Harvey

Instrumentation
Cello
Publisher
C. Harvey Publications
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Cover of The 'Mary Had a Little Lamb' Book for Cello
Cover courtesy of C. Harvey Publications

About this piece

The 'Mary Had a Little Lamb' Book for Cello uses fifty variations on the tune of 'Mary Had a Little Lamb' to reinforce basic finger patterns and rhythms on the cello. Easy rhythms and slur patterns are included, with each short variation focusing on a specific technique. Intended for use after The Hot Cross Buns Book for Cello, this book also has larger notes, making it ideal for younger beginning students. Knowing the Notes for Cello and Cello Book One could be used after this book. Please note: this book is not compatible with the other instrument books in the series.

Technical overview

This beginning cello technique book uses the famous folk tune to teach essential skills.

Level rubric

Early Beginner

Left Hand

  • Basic setup: open strings & 1st-finger in 1st position.
  • No shifting or extensions.
  • No vibrato; harmonics only as open-string effects.

Right Hand

  • Proper bow hold with straight strokes.
  • Basic détaché on open strings.
  • Mid‑bow focus; clean start/stop exercises.
  • Simple adjacent string crossings.

Bow Strokes

  • Détaché.
  • Stopped notes
  • Continuous string contact.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Simple rhythms (quarters, 8ths, repeated patterns).
  • Short pieces in 2/4 or 4/4.
  • Minimal phrasing (1–2 bars).
  • Steady dynamics for clear tone.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

Music

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