Overview
Strictly Strings, Book 1 is a comprehensive beginner string method by Jacquelyn Dillon, James Kjelland and John O’Reilly. Designed for easy teaching and progressive learning, the method introduces young violinists to playing fundamentals while gradually developing their ability to read music.
A distinctive letter-note approach provides a smooth transition from learning by rote to reading standard notation. Students are also introduced to ensemble playing early in the course, with melodies covering different keys, modes and musical styles.
Key Features
Comprehensive beginner method for violin
Carefully structured lesson sequence
Letter-note system supports the transition to standard notation
Introduces ensemble playing from an early stage
Wide variety of melodies, keys and modes
Develops playing abilities progressively and systematically
Suitable for both private teaching and school string programmes
Featured Repertoire
The book incorporates a variety of beginner melodies and ensemble material rather than focusing on a conventional recital repertoire. Examples associated with the method include:
Polly Wolly Doodle
Merrily We Roll Along
Hot Cross Buns
Merry Widow Waltz
Pachelbel Canon
Pachelbel Canon and other ensemble material linked to the accompanying Strictly Classics resources.
What Students Will Develop
Correct violin playing position
Basic bow and left-hand coordination
Pizzicato and arco playing
Reading notes and understanding the musical alphabet
Basic rhythm and note values
Finger placement and intonation
Playing with different dynamics and articulations
Ensemble awareness and the ability to play with other musicians
Familiarity with basic keys, scales and musical concepts
Technical Exercises
Rather than separating technique from repertoire, Strictly Strings, Book 1 integrates fundamental technique directly into its lesson sequence. Early material introduces playing position, pizzicato, note reading and basic bowing, followed by concepts such as legato, hooked bowing, scale passages and basic articulation.
The method also introduces students to concepts including the major scale, whole and half steps, key signatures and basic bowing patterns, providing a foundation for continued study in later books.
Product Details
Brand: Alfred Music
Series: Strictly Strings
Instrument: Violin
Level: Beginner
Book: Book 1
Authors: Jacquelyn Dillon, James Kjelland & John O’Reilly
Publisher: Alfred Music
Pages: 40
Overview
Strictly Strings, Book 1 is a comprehensive beginner string method by Jacquelyn Dillon, James Kjelland and John O’Reilly. Designed for easy teaching and progressive learning, the method introduces young violinists to playing fundamentals while gradually developing their ability to read music.
A distinctive letter-note approach provides a smooth transition from learning by rote to reading standard notation. Students are also introduced to ensemble playing early in the course, with melodies covering different keys, modes and musical styles.
Key Features
Comprehensive beginner method for violin
Carefully structured lesson sequence
Letter-note system supports the transition to standard notation
Introduces ensemble playing from an early stage
Wide variety of melodies, keys and modes
Develops playing abilities progressively and systematically
Suitable for both private teaching and school string programmes
Featured Repertoire
The book incorporates a variety of beginner melodies and ensemble material rather than focusing on a conventional recital repertoire. Examples associated with the method include:
Polly Wolly Doodle
Merrily We Roll Along
Hot Cross Buns
Merry Widow Waltz
Pachelbel Canon
Pachelbel Canon and other ensemble material linked to the accompanying Strictly Classics resources.
What Students Will Develop
Correct violin playing position
Basic bow and left-hand coordination
Pizzicato and arco playing
Reading notes and understanding the musical alphabet
Basic rhythm and note values
Finger placement and intonation
Playing with different dynamics and articulations
Ensemble awareness and the ability to play with other musicians
Familiarity with basic keys, scales and musical concepts
Technical Exercises
Rather than separating technique from repertoire, Strictly Strings, Book 1 integrates fundamental technique directly into its lesson sequence. Early material introduces playing position, pizzicato, note reading and basic bowing, followed by concepts such as legato, hooked bowing, scale passages and basic articulation.
The method also introduces students to concepts including the major scale, whole and half steps, key signatures and basic bowing patterns, providing a foundation for continued study in later books.
Product Details
Brand: Alfred Music
Series: Strictly Strings
Instrument: Violin
Level: Beginner
Book: Book 1
Authors: Jacquelyn Dillon, James Kjelland & John O’Reilly
Publisher: Alfred Music
Pages: 40