Cello Time Runners + CD: A second book of easy pieces for cello - Tapa blanda

A pleasant surprise is in store for cello teachers who have not yet come across the Cello Time series . . . The repetitive aspect of practice goes unnoticed when we are presented with such a diverse choice of appealing material. Smiling faces and brightly coloured cheerful scenes on the front cover of both volumes set the stage for an enthusiastic learning atmosphere. Humorous illustrations throughout ensure the promise of happy lesson times. The books are not too long for youngsters to wade through and the pages are clearly spaced and easy to read. (Stringendo (Australian String Assoc) Vol 1 2004)

An exciting choice of varied titles includes 'Spy Movie' (shades of the 'Pink Panther'?), 'Cello Time Rag' and a flowing 'Summer Evening'. The slow, undulating movements of the whale are obvious in the gentle 'Blue Whale'. Caribbean sunshine and Mexican fiesta times are interspaced with Celtic airs, Parisian cafe jazz, Jacob's Dance and 'Te Deum'. Stack of songs from folk to jazz are thoughtfully selected to give an opportunity for use of vibrato, long and short bows, legato and staccato . . . (Stringendo (Australian String Assoc) Vol 1 2004)

An unexpected bonus handily pocketed at the back of the books is a CD that is sure to boost the most flagging spirits. The rigours of learning are seemingly forgotten as they play alongside the tape - from dreamy strings to the drum-kit beat. As the student becomes aware of the inevitability of the rhythmic beat, we are on the way to establishing an inner 'rhythmic' pulse. The CD helps with listening for good intonation and a beautiful sound as well as freeing the teacher from the need to accompany, so that a watchful eye can be kept on posture and so on. Pieces are counted in to these tasteful accompaniments. Separate piano accompaniment books are also available. These two volumes certainly succeed in providing lots of motivational repertoire for budding cellists. Kathy and David Blackwell's continuing series guarantees musical enjoyment! (Stringendo (Australian String Assoc) Vol 1 2004)

The books are laid out in a very approachable and exciting way, and are clear and large making them easy to read . . . These two books, but particularly the Runners, are an excellent addition to available teaching repertoire on the cello. For parents and children alike, access to accompaniments is a wonderful bonus in the age of the CD player . . . I applaud the book educationally and for motivating pupils, and I shall certainly use Runners with my pupils. (Wendy Owen, Ensemble, January 03)

These are a marvellous addition to the beginner repertoire because they are fun and extremely musical tunes . . . Cello Time Runners is an excellent resource for extension material with a variety of pieces in both flat and sharp keys . . . Pupils of mine have loved both volumes and in all cases have come back having explored and chosen their own favourite tunes. (Julia Goehr, ESTA News and Views Winter 02)

The Cello Time books are more conventional and make excellent use of technology in the shape of CDs with very imaginative backing which includes the cello part. My pupils loved them . . . In both books the progression is excellent, the pieces not too long and there is a good glossary at the end . . . this is a most welcome publication. (Music Teacher June 2003)

BL Pieces using 2nd finger BL Pieces using backward and forward extensions BL A range of styles from folk to jazz BL Semi-quavers, dotted crotchets, and 6/8 time BL Duets with parts of equal difficulty BL Scales and arpeggios of the keys in the book, plus G major 2 octaves BL A Music Fact-Finder page to help explain words and signs BL CD with performances of all the pieces to play along to BL Straightforward piano accompaniments available