Reviews

Caroline McCaskey’s AltStrings Fiddle Method Book 1 should be welcomed by Suzuki Violin teachers looking for supplementary fiddle material because it follows the skills needed for Suzuki Book 1 so closely. She has done a fine job relating her book to Suzuki’s. Teachers will enjoy using this series!

I love this book! Caroline McCaskey knows the fiddling and Suzuki worlds equally well and her tune selection is excellent. But this is much more than a repertoire collection. It’s full of solid technique tips and teaching suggestions. Beginning-level students will learn how to use chords and rhythmic patterns to jam along with their friends. Looking forward to Volume 2!

Caroline McCaskey’s AltStrings Fiddle Method is an excellent synthesis of two traditions in string playing—fiddle fun and developing technique. She has brought together, not just another group of beginning fiddle tunes, but has also provided a pedagogical guide to aid in the technical development of the player. As such, this book may provide a solid technical base for playing many genres of music.

Suzuki teachers with completed coursework in the method will note the many ways that these tunes may be used to reinforce pedagogical concepts found in the Suzuki Method. Caroline’s rich fiddle background paired with her Suzuki pedagogical training are evident in this helpful synthesis.

For classical trained students and teachers, this book will easily open the door to having fun with the world of fiddle music. Thanks, Caroline!

My son loves bluegrass and Scottish music, and this book has really increased his motivation to practice! The songs perfectly align with the Suzuki foundation he has learned, and add much appreciated zest to his repertoire. He just completed his Book 1 recital and we are eagerly awaiting Book 2!

What a fine fiddle book Caroline McCaskey gives us with her AltStrings Fiddle Method. In it, each tune builds on the challenges of the previous tune, and each tune includes information about the composer’s name and the history of the tune. There are tips and reminders about how to move our bows and place our fingers. I know when I took violin lessons, I was happiest when I was learning good melodies. Some of the great melodies are included here! I know my younger self would have really enjoyed this book. Bravo, Caroline, a wonderful teacher and fiddler, for creating her own method. This Irish fiddler is looking forward to Volume 2.

I love all of the fiddle tunes in this book! They are all easy to master and have a great sound. Caroline McCaskey is a gifted musician and a phenomenal teacher. The book is amazing!

A delightful and skillfully thought out fiddle series for all ages that should ignite interest and joy in learning and understanding the genre.

A much needed resource for both students and teachers, containing thorough, helpful advice on how to put each new technique into practice. These are great skills for getting you started on your journey of accompanying fiddle tunes and being able to jam with friends!

This book is a great resource for the beginning cellist to get comfortable playing fiddle tunes that will serve them well in jam sessions, and beyond!