A good piece for string crossing. It can be played getting faster at the start of each new section.
All the pieces in Technitunes were written with multi-level and multi-instrument group teaching in mind. For violin, viola and cello the top part is all in first position. On the double bass, shifting is required and brings the top part to Grade 3 level. The lower part is in first position for all instruments, though violins will need a high 3rd finger and cellos will need a forward extension.
German Dance provides an accessible introduction to double stops and opportunities to produce a good spiccato bow stroke. For all instruments, except double bass, both parts are all in first position. For the double bass, the top part has a range of shifts to 2nd, 3rd and 4th positions while the lower part remains in 1st position.
A late Baroque/Early Classical Sonata with opportunities to develop articulation. All movements are useful at grades 5-6.
The slow movement is based on a Scottish Air and needs sustained bowing. The last movement has some rapid semiquavers that can sound somewhat impressive!
Can be performed as a duet with the second bass playing the left hand of the piano part.
A brisk piece in D major with both parts going up to third position and containing a variety of articulations. Dotted rhythms feature with the slurs going across the beat.
From the album Two’s Company: 16 little duets for two equal instruments Op. 157B
The upper part plays a haunting melody in the neck positions of the double bass.
The lower part is all open strings. While the rhythm is only crotchets, minims and semibreves it requires the player to have an understanding of the rhythmic and harmonic role of this part. Not necessarily beginner material.
From the album of duets Open Doors. The second part always lies on open strings but is not necessarily intended for a complete beginner. May be suitable for an older starter who already plays another instrument.
