Detail 01
Book plus CD
Audio gives you a pitch and tempo reference, which matters most on a fretless instrument.
Product detailSKU #1302553613474
Carl FischerThe Abcs Of Cello For The Absolute Beginner Book/CD
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Beginner cello method book with a CD, for an absolute first-timer starting cello with no prior reading ability.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Adult or student starting cello with no music-reading background
- Self-teaching between lessons with an audio reference
- A teacher wanting a slow-ramp first book for new students
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Players who already read music and want faster progression
- Anyone needing a graded exam or audition syllabus
- Other bowed strings — this is cello-specific
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Absolute beginner level
Starts from holding the instrument and reading basics rather than assuming prior lessons.
Detail 03
Method book format
Sequential lessons that build one skill at a time, not a collection of songs to pick from.
Detail 04
Cello-specific
Bass clef, cello fingering and bowing throughout; it does not transfer to violin or viola.
Detail 05
Under $20
Cheap enough to pair with a second repertoire book once you finish the basics.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01A cello, bow, rosin and a tuner are not included
- 02You need a CD player or a drive to rip the disc
- 03One book covers early stages only — plan a follow-up volume
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Do I need a teacher to use this?
No. It is written for someone starting alone, and the CD gives you something to match. A teacher still helps most with bow hold and posture.
02Is the CD required?
The book works without it, but the audio is the main way to check your intonation early on. Rip it to your phone if you have no CD player.
03Does this teach note reading?
Yes. It starts from reading bass clef, so no prior music literacy is assumed.
04Will this work for a child?
It suits a student who can read words and sit through structured practice. Very young beginners usually do better with a teacher-led method.
