Level 1 String Ensemble, First Notes, First Concert

Featured Works: Ken Cooper's "Little Suite"

The true pedagogical centerpiece of this Level 1 library is Ken Cooper’s Little Suite. This set of two pieces contains what many educators consider two of the best works ever written for beginning string students.

• 1. "Little Dance": This movement is a stunning example of musical composition that uses only open strings. By restricting the players to the four fundamental notes of their instruments (G, D, A, E or C, G, D, A), Cooper focuses the students entirely on the most critical foundation: bowing technique and rhythmic accuracy. Students practice smooth string crossing and consistent tone across all four strings without the added complexity of the left hand.

• 2. "Boogie": Building directly on the first movement, "Boogie" cleverly uses open strings and the first finger only. This strategic limitation allows students to practice the foundational skill of accurate first-finger placement in a fun, musically engaging context.

Crucially, when the piano accompaniment is added to these works, the pieces sound complete and sophisticated, providing a high level of musical satisfaction for the young performers and the audience alike. Performing "Little Dance" and "Boogie" is the perfect way to solidify bow control and prepare the left hand for the rest of the repertoire.

The Rest of the Library: Arranging for Success

The remaining pieces in the Level 1 folder consist primarily of skillfully crafted arrangements. These arrangements allow first-year students to experience a variety of musical styles—from folk songs to simple classical melodies—while keeping the technical demands strictly within the limits of open strings and first-finger notes.

The goal is simple: to make the first concert experience a resounding success. By mastering the works in this folder, students will gain the essential skills needed to advance to Level 2 and continue their rewarding journey in the string ensemble.