Masterful duo Mary Cohen and Robert Spearing team up once again in this wonderful collection of original pieces for established beginner string quartet.

Quartetstart Level 2 is full of stimulating and enjoyable repertoire which has been carefully devised for string players of around ABRSM Grade 2-3. Building on the skills and ideas first introduced in Quartetstart Level 1, this truly original collection explores a wide range of musical styles as well as many interesting string effects (including simple harmonics, collegno, pizzicato and tremolo). Containing invaluable rehearsal tips throughout, these imaginative pieces will give string players the opportunity to discover the joys of ensemble playing right from the early stages of learning.

A violin 3 alternative to the viola part is provided.

Reviews

This is a set of seven short quartet movements. I asked a quartet of players of Grade 6/7 to play through them for me. The titles are descriptive, intending to catch the imagination of the young players. This works well for some movements, eg Festive Fanfare and Waltz of the Skeletons... There are performance suggestions printed under the titles of each movement in the score. These are aimed to help the performers themselves, rather than the teacher who would be coaching players of this level. The individual parts are full of extra instructions. such as 'leave bow on string during rests', 'pizz next', 'the rhythm is different here' etc.... Musically the movements are varied. Festive Fanfare and Video Diaries (also with a 5/8 movement) have slurred string crossings and pizzicato. Victorian Seaside Holiday includes time changes, tied notes, and pizzicato. Waltz of the Skeletons is fun: col legno, mutes, harmonics. Technically the parts are well matched with lots of interest for the viola/violin 3.

European String Teachers Association, Winter 1999

Book Information
ISBN 9780571519439
Author Mary Cohen
Page Count 64
Imprint Faber Music Ltd
Publisher Faber Music Ltd
Weight(grams) 233g