Mary Cohen understands well what points of technique require special practice and has written music which will motivate the student. Each study concentrates on just a few technical points, and also has a musical character of its own to encourage an awareness of different styles. A useful addition to the teaching repertoire.
European String Teachers Association, Spring 1994
Technique takes off is an excellent publication of 14 short studies for intermediate players. Seven studies are common to both the violin and viola books and seven are specifically for the viola. Each one has a descriptive title suggesting the style and there is helpful advice at the start as to how to play it. 'Dormez-vous?' ('Wake up!') is an arrangement of Frere Jacques which keeps hopping from the C string to the A (third position) and from the viola to treble clef. The caption above the music warns of this: repeated up-bow staccato quick changes of octave and clef, chromatic runs, one and two-octave harmonics. Other useful studies are 'Sequenza' in continuous semiquavers (a good preparation for playing unaccompanied Bach).
Music Teacher Magazine, April 1994
This is a wonderful collection for pupils who need inspiration to jump the Grade 4-5 hurdle. Each study's purpose is dearly explained - string crossing, emphasis of melodic line, 'passing', vibrato, etc - and many demand performance at a students' concert, particularly 'Prelude', 'Gossips in a London Street' and Dragon Dance'.
European String Teachers Association, Autumn 1992
