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Cello Repertoire Initiative

Third Position Preparatory Studies for the Cello

by Cassia Harvey

Instrumentation
Cello
Publisher
C. Harvey Publications
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Cover of Third Position Preparatory Studies for the Cello
Cover courtesy of C. Harvey Publications

About this piece

This book presents easy studies and corresponding short pieces that introduce the student to basic third position on the cello. With an emphasis on shifting, the book teaches closed third position on the A string and extended third position on the D string. Useful for cellists of all ages, this book could be followed by the more complex exploration of the position in Third Position for the Cello, Book One (CHP116).

Technical overview

This intermediate cello position method helps you learn third position slowly and stress-free!

Level rubric

Early Intermediate

Left Hand

  • Regular shifting among 1st–4th positions.
  • Frequent shifts with target notes & prepared approaches.
  • Introduce ornamentation (grace notes, slow trills, turns).
  • Begin basic double stops (often with one open note).
  • Combine extensions with shifting.
  • Consistent vibrato on sustained notes with speed variations.

Right Hand

  • Bow arm gains finesse and speed.
  • Introduce controlled spiccato.
  • Sautillé appears in rapid passages.
  • Expand legato into longer, sustained lines.
  • Practice advanced articulations (martelé, refined string crossings).
  • Add complex strokes for double stops/chords.

Bow Strokes

  • Use context‑appropriate strokes: legato, spiccato, martelé.
  • Subtle bow changes during string crossings.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Increased challenges: sixteenths, dotted rhythms, syncopation, contrasting subdivisions.
  • Emphasize expression with crescendos/decrescendos & vibrato.
  • Balance technical precision with emotional delivery.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.

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