The studies by Friedrich August Kummer are perfect for music lessons, particularly because of their accompaniment of a second violoncello. They are characterized by a very systematic arrangement, cleverly introduce the circle of fifths and offer exercises at all levels of difficulty.

The studies originally come from the appendix to Kummer's Celloschule fur den ersten Unterricht Op. 60. In this new edition, they are for the first time published completely in two volumes as 92 progressive studies. The present edition is based on the first edition published in 1839 (Verlag Friedrich Hofmeister, Leipzig) and has essentially adopted the original fingerings and bowing indications. For better readability, the number of fingerings has been slightly reduced.

Volume 1 (ED 22371) is intended for beginner and intermediate lessons. Volume 2 (ED 22372) focusses on the musical performance of the advanced pupil.

Friedrich August Kummer (1797-1879) was a pupil of Friedrich Dotzauer and Bernhard Romberg and later trained famous cellists like Julius Goltermann or Bernhard Cossmann.

This volume gradually introduces the most important thumb techniques:

At first, the 4 finger patterns in thumb position are introduced systematically. The thumb first remains placed over the octave harmonics. Later, other thumb positions are added. At the end of the volume, the change from one thumb position to the other and the octave parallels are practised.

In order that the student does not miss out on the fun, each topic comes with 'tailor-made' pieces and arrangements of the author from classical, folk, rock, and jazz music. Many pieces also come with piano parts and mp3s for download. The programme is completed by many examples from the classical cello literature.

The author recommends using the comprehensive material in various ways. The order can be changed without any problems. Chapters or difficult passages can be skipped and practised later. This volume should be used over a longer period, yet can be occasionally laid aside for a while.

Ideal to complement, for example, Gabriel Koeppen's cello method (Schott, volume 1: ED 20841) or any other textbook.