A Quick Guide to Beginner String Instrument Method Books: What They Are and Why They Matter
Whether you're picking up the violin for the first time or teaching a classroom full of budding musicians, method books are foundational tools in the world of string instrument education.
What Are Method Books?
A method book is a pedagogical tool designed to teach the techniques, theory, and repertoire of an instrument in a systematic and organized manner. For orchestral string instruments like the violin, viola, 'cello, and double bass, these books typically include:
- Progressive exercises and etudes
- Short musical pieces for practice and performance
- Technical studies (e.g., scales, arpeggios, bowing patterns)
- Music theory concepts
- Sight-reading and ear-training elements
- Sometimes, composition and improvisation
Method books are often structured by level (beginner, intermediate, advanced), and many come with accompanying audio tracks or digital resources to support learning.
While many popular method books encompass all of the above materials, others focus on separate aspects of musical training, allowing for a more in-depth exposure to technique, theory, and musicianship concepts.
Choosing the Right Method Book
When selecting a method book, consider the following:
- Age and level of the student: Younger beginners may benefit from Suzuki or other ear-training-based methods. Older students may prefer a reading-focused approach.
- Learning style: Some students thrive on visual learning; others may benefit more from listening or physical movement.
- Teacher preferences: Some instructors stick with one series; others mix and match based on student needs.
- Mode of Instruction: Method books for individual lessons may differ from the ones created primarily for group classes.
- Goals: Preparing for orchestral auditions, casual playing, or long-term mastery can all influence your choice.
Popular Books for Younger Beginners
1. Suzuki Method (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass)
- Author: Dr. Shinichi Suzuki
- Approach: Learning by ear and imitation, parental involvement, and early starting age
- Notable Feature: Emphasizes listening and repetition; ideal for very young beginners
Links to buy on Amazon:
Suzuki Book 1 Solo Part
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass
Suzuki Book 1 Piano Accompaniment
Violin Piano Viola Piano Cello Piano Double Bass Piano
Popular All-In-One String Method Books
2. Essential Elements for Strings Book 1
- Publisher: Hal Leonard
- Approach: School-based, note reading early on, includes online resources
- Notable Feature: Widely used in public school programs; includes ensemble play and theory
Links to buy on Amazon:
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass
2. String Explorer Book 1
- Publisher: Alfred Music
- Approach: Student engaging, sequential, lots of trivia, online audio/software
- Notable feature: Popular in school programs as an effective and less dry alternative to traditional methods
Links to buy on Amazon:
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass
3. All for Strings Book 1
- Authors: Gerald E. Anderson and Robert S. Frost
- Approach: Strong emphasis on music reading, theory integration, and technique
- Notable Feature: Balanced progression and comprehensive exercises
Links to buy on Amazon:
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass
4. String Basics
- Publisher : Kjos Music Company
- Approach: School-based, progressive sequence, interactive practice studio
- Notable feature: video resources
Links to buy on Amazon:
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass
Supplementary Books for School or Private Studio
1. Note Reading for Strings Book 1
- Publisher : Soundwave Music
- Approach: Practical hands-on approach, learning theory as applicable to string instruments
- Notable feature: theory concepts are reinforced with worksheets and playing exercises
Buy on our website (all instruments, digital or print)
Note Reading for Strings Book 1
Links to buy on Amazon (print only)
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass Teacher's Edition
Note Reading Charts
2. Orchestra Etudes Volume 1
- Publisher : Soundwave Music
- Approach: Supplementary technical exercises, suitable for large ensemble classes or individual lessons
- Notable feature: Each etude consists of several small exercises addressing the same technique
Buy on our website (all instruments, digital and print)
3. Classics in Color
- Publisher : Soundwave Music
- Approach: A collection of famous themes from the classical repertoire in progressive order of difficulty.
- Notable feature: each piece is embedded into a coloring page and is accompanied by a short introduction about the composers.
Buy on our website (all instruments, digital and print)
Links to buy on Amazon (print only)
Violin Viola 'Cello Double Bass
Final Thoughts
Method books are indispensable tools for learning string instruments. They offer structured, reliable guidance that empowers students to learn the basic skills in a step-by-step progression. While no book is a one-size-fits-all solution, finding the right one (or combination) can dramatically improve a student’s experience.
Whether you’re a music educator, a parent, or a student, understanding how to use method books effectively is a key part of successful string instrument learning.