Sweet Betsy from Pike – Fiddle Method for Orchestra, Book 1, No. 15

AltStrings Book Reviews

Teachers will enjoy

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!

William Starr

Suzuki Association of the Americas, International Suzuki Association

I love this book!

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!

Laura Risk

Scottish and Quebecois fiddler

An excellent synthesis

AltStrings Fiddle Method is an excellent synthesis of two traditions in string playing—fiddle fun and developing technique. Caroline has provided a pedagogical guide to aid in the technical development of the player. For classical trained students and teachers, this book will easily open the door to having fun with the world of fiddle music.

Kathleen Spring

American Suzuki Association Teacher Trainer

Perfectly aligned with Suzuki

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!

Genery Booster

Colorado Parent

A fine fiddle book

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. My younger self would have really enjoyed this book.

Liz Carroll

Irish fiddler

Easy to master!

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!

Elizabeth Riedel

Student (age 12)

Delightful!

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

Michael Doucet

Cajun fiddler

A much-needed resource

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!

Natalie Haas

Cellist

Jam sessions, and beyond!

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!

Mike Block

Multi-style cellist