As with the other books in his "...for Cello" series, Rick Mooney has made the learning of a specific technique easier and more enjoyable than ever before. The pieces in these books include easy classical music (e.g. from the "Anna Magdalena Notebook" and Tschaikowsky's "Album for the Young") as well as folk songs, fiddle tunes and several pieces by Mr. Mooney specially composed to address specific technical points. All of the pieces have been arranged as duets, with a second cello part for the teacher (or other students in a group class) to play. As a result, students are readily able to hear when they are playing accurately. "Thumb Position for Cello" comes in two volumes. Book 1 includes only the four basic fingering patterns used in thumb posi- tion. This is the only book available which gives the student so much opportunity for repetition and mastery of basic thumb position technique. Book 2 (available in 1999) includes more advanced thumb position techniques including chromatic finger patterns, extending the hand, use of fourth finger, moving the thumb across as well as up and down the string, and getting into and out of thumb position. These well-organized, enjoyable books will be a welcome addition to the libraries of all teachers and students of the cello.
