Cello playing for 3-6's
"I have found that this very comprehensive method works for all abilities, including pupils with special needs. It makes learning notation and rhythm crystal clear and takes away all the expected complications of teaching. 'Cellobabies' makes teaching beginners an easier path. My pupils feel they achieve something every week and they are raring to go. The 'Cellobabies' method promotes the children's work and makes them more creative. It is a refreshing new method which I think is fantastic''.
Cellobabies is an all round musical training for very young children who show an interest in the cello. There is a clearly and simply laid out 'Pupils Workbook', accompanied by a 'Teachers and Parents Book' These include, among others, sol-fa, French time names and posture and bow games. The use of two separate books means that the pupil's page remains uncluttered and easy to read. The open strings of the cello are introduced as animal characters and each is given its own shape. The stave is then slowly introduced and each string's shape placed on it. There are some imaginative songs and familiar pieces which encourage the child to compose rhythms and tunes right from the start.
I have used already these books with five pupils ranging from ages three to six, with productive and enthusiastic response. The older pupils find it quite easy and are always wanting to turn the page. The very young children enjoy the games and creativity, while slowly assimilating symbols and actions. For any string teacher working with young pupils, it is a highly valuable resource.
All children love making music, and given the right opportunity, many can play a real instrument from a very early age.
Cellobabies provides just that opportunity for younger ones to:
- learn to play the cello
- overcome the sight reading barrier
- acquire the very best techniques right from the start
- really enjoy themselves in the process
Cellobabies children learn to play the cello in a happy, relaxed atmosphere. They compose their own melodies, and advance toward reading conventional music notation in a natural progression, but at a much earlier age than is normal - some even before they can read!
Cellobabies has been developed by Kay Tucker, one of the UK's leading cello teachers, as a result of years of experience with younger cellists. The parent's comments speak for themselves!
This site is designed to tell you about Cellobabies and also to act as a general resource for young cellists, with useful hints and links.
Cellobabies background
Everyone knows that conventional music notation is very difficult for a pre-school child to grasp, especially when trying to learn the 'mechanics' of playing a cello at the same time. To overcome this, Kay devised her own simple notation so that the child can concentrate on becoming comfortable with his or her instrument.
The youngster is led on to perform well while confidently sight-reading conventional notation. This takes place at his or her own pace through five easy stages.
page topCellobabies strengths
As the young player progresses through the Cellobabies programme, they naturally develop strength in:
- early cello playing [obviously!]
- early, confident sight-reading
- composing experience
- aural skills [listening]
- posture, bowing and left hand skills
- presentation & performance skills
Cellobabies values
Cellobabies is designed to be fun and rewarding! No slave driving, no regimentation. Structured home practise is gradually introduced as the program proceeds.
A typical session will include playing, singing & musical games, all with a strong emphasis on enjoyment.
Groups are kept very small; this enables Kay to concentrate on each child and develop the best playing habits right from the beginning.
page topCellobabies & exams
Kay will enter children for external exams, but only when that child is emotionally ready. Some children may be technically able long before that time arrives and that is fine. Exams are not the be-all and end-all!
Having said that, Kay's children have been achieving excellent results in the Trinity Guildhall Initial Exams - gaining distinctions and merits.
Of note is the fact they have been getting between 70% and 100% at the sight-reading exam sessions- a nice objective confirmation of the strengths of the Cellobabies program. Also of note is the fact that these children happily took the exams when aged 6 or 7 years old.
page topCellobabies session details
Cellobabies is based in the Horsham area of West Sussex [UK]. It is currently run privately and also at Arundale School. Ages range from three to six, although Kay has had under threes. There is a trial period of 4 weeks, to see if your child is happy and really wants to continue. No forced recruits!
Sessions last for no more than 30 minutes [less for the youngest], in cheerful & comfortable surroundings. Parents can stay or not as they please.
Children are either taught individually or in very small classes of no more than three. Your child won't get lost in the crush.
page topCellos for Cellobabies
A small child needs a small cello - typically 1/10th or 1/8th full size. These can represent a heavy financial outlay, especially if you are not sure if your child will want to continue. Even then, small cellos may not be easy to find.
However Kay has been able to persuade a good supplier that there is a need for these instruments, and so it is now easy to hire suitable cellos at very reasonable rates.
Recommended specialist suppliers: Ackerman Music
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