The Belwin String Builder is a string class method in which the violin, viola, cello, and bass playtogether throughout. Each book, however, is a complete unit and may be used separately for class orindividual instruction. The material in this book is realistically graded so that only a minimum ofexplanatory material is required. Each melody is interesting and will provide the basis for a fine left hand technic and bow arm. Available in three levels for violin, viola, cello, bass, piano accompaniment, and teacher´s manual.
This book starts with a brief review of material covered in Book One. It then covers scales and melodies in various keys, including D Major and B Flat Major; six-eight time signature; and concludes with an introduction to playing in third position. The book also includes various types of bowing. The makeup of our country has changed, and there is a heightened awareness of cultural sensitivity. Songs by Stephen Foster like "Old Black Joe" or "Massa's in the Cold, Cold Ground" would never make it into today's school music books. Readers would do better using the author's "Building Technique with Beautiful Music" series. I've voiced the same concerns/caveats about Eurocentric repertoire in those books, but I find the explanations just as clear and less watered down.