Book 1 is ideal for getting young beginners off to a flying start. The early part of the book can be used flexibly, accommodating the approach preferred by the teacher and suited to the progress of the student. Learning areas may be introduced separately and combined when ready. Reading rhythms Bowing Using left hand fingers Pitch notation Rhythm exercises are used before any pitch notation. Rhythms may be clapped or played, bowed or plucked, on open strings or using fingering. Left hand fingers may be introduced in the order preferred, using the rhythms to develop finger skill and strength. Major scales and arpeggios are played starting on an open string. Many short, easy tunes gradually introduce reading and playing with all fingers on each string (fingers 1,3 & 4 for cello).