The Cello Gym – Scale Studies & Workouts

Introduction

About The Cello Gym
We have all been told by our teachers to practise more scales and other technical material. Many of us buy books full of exercises — and then get lost in the sheer volume. This series takes a simple approach: pick a key and make it your key of the month. For one month, start each practice by playing the scales of that key at a given tempo. Keys are rated from easy (♪) to difficult (♪♪♪). Stick to it and you will see progress.

Vol.1 ( Beginner → intermediate)

Vol.1 is Scale book for Beginner to intermediate.

Vol.2 (intermediate → advanced)

Vol.2 is for intermediate to advanced players. You should know how to use the thumb (left hand!) and have some experience playing double stops.

Vol.3 (advanced → professional)

Welcome to the third part of The Cello Gym! This volume is for advanced to professional players. All keys are covered (enharmonic equivalents are left out for readability).

How to use Vol.3
① Pick a key
② Set your metronome (60 b.p.m.)
③ Play both pages for that key, repeating where indicated

It may help to choose keys related to the piece you are working on. Feel free to replace fingerings with your own — these are suggestions. And: don’t give up!

Vol.4 Bow Fitness

Bow Fitness Training: inspired by Ševčik’s concept, adapted into practical 10-minute workouts. Be patient — improvements take time. Stay relaxed, and don’t overdo it.

Vol.5 Left Hand

This volume is a serious step in training your left hand. The key mantra is: DON’T OVERDO IT. Do a little, stop at the right moment, and come back the next day.