Whenever I tell someone that I play cello they ask if I know that one cello song. Obviously the answer is yes and that piece is the Prelude of Bach’s first Cello Suite in G major. This piece is not the beginning nor is it the end of our repertoire but it is a bedrock. So, how do we get from learning your strings to playing Bach’s cello suites and beyond? Well, I have a few recommendations!
What Books Do You Need to Get Started With Beginner Cello Music
Firstly, if you are playing in a typical public school orchestra, you will probably use books such as Essential Elements, All for Strings, or the like. These are great, but a bit clinical and boring at times. Don’t get me wrong! As all of my students will tell you, I LOVE boring technical work! But for the sake of learning and enjoying the process, these books may not be as much fun.
For those of you that are looking for books to start with String Builder by Samuel Applebaum and all of the other books in his series.
These books are so good at showing us how to play the cello, and other string instruments. Most of the pieces in these books are pretty short and sweet which is always a plus. The books progress from very simple pieces to topics like playing in positions. Additionally, there are books on playing in position and duet books. Chamber music is important so, when it is safe, go get these books and play some duets with a friend!
Applebaum’s books are fantastic for laying the groundwork and learning the ins and outs of cello playing, but eventually you will outgrow these books and want to play more advanced music. When the time comes, or if you start from book one, in conjunction with, Applebaum’s books, you should DEFINITELY get Solos for Young Cellists by Carey Cheney. These books are THE game changer for me personally.
This series of books are mostly beginning solos but then as you progress through the books you will eventually end up on pieces like Bach’s Cello Suite!
BEFORE YOU GET TOO EXCITED!
Getting there is going to take some time. However, these beginner cello music pieces are fun and get you the opportunity to learn more of the solo repertoire.
Here’s a trick that I developed. Look up the composers in all of these books. Explore what else they have composed. I have found so many new pieces by researching what that composer has written for my instrument, and much more. You can also find composers that are similar to these composers and expand your knowledge even more. Yes it is an easy YouTube rabbit hole but, it is so much fun and so interesting finding connections between composers and learning new pieces. So go forth and play!
Happy practicing!
Braxton Alexander Porter