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Bowing Studies on Arpeggios, Book One

by Cassia Harvey

Instrumentation
Cello
Publisher
C. Harvey Publications
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Cover of Bowing Studies on Arpeggios, Book One
Cover courtesy of C. Harvey Publications

About this piece

Bowing Studies on Arpeggios for the Cello is a series of exercises primarily for the intermediate or advanced cellist's right hand, with an emphasis on string crossing. The book is written so that the left hand builds strength as it reaches across strings, while at the same time the right hand gains precision and control. Bowing styles such as spiccato, staccato, sautille, and ricochet are included.

Technical overview

This intermediate cello bowing book works on string crossing, balance, bow control, and more.

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.