Book 1 progresses in steps from a single open string to the scale of D major. One divergence from the usual approach is that the note G is taught after E but before F#. This better develops the left hand position, especially for cellists. The tunes in this section of the tutor are based on the minor 3rd interval and correlate with the Kodaly method in classroom music.

As the primary intention of this tutor is for group tuition of mixed string instruments, the note A is initially presented as an open string (except for the double bass). The use of the fourth finger for violin and viola is introduced later in the book.

All tunes until late in Book 1 are in common time to establish a strong sense of basic rhythm and a solid understanding of beat before adding other variations.