Resonance emerged through a united commitment to foster inclusivity and representation in classical music. Through a collective mission to redefine the landscape of music education and performance, our team is creating a space where the cello serves as a powerful tool for cultural expression and connection.

This series weaves together the rich tapestry of folk traditions, elevates the works of BIPOC and women composers, and shines a much-needed spotlight on voices that have long been underrepresented in the world of classical music. By curating this repertoire, Resonance celebrates music as a living art form that evolves to reflect the diversity of human experience.

At the heart of its mission lies accessibility. Resonance offers thoughtfully crafted resources, ensuring that no one is left behind on their journey of discovery. Through these tools, students are encouraged to explore a vibrant array of compositions that resonate with the world they see and the stories they live, expanding their understanding of music's transformative power.

By challenging traditional norms and embracing innovation, Resonance inspires a new generation of cellists to break barriers, find their voices, and carry forward the mission of equity, artistry, and authenticity in the music world.

Note to Teachers

Thank you for using this book! The pieces are organized in a suggested sequential order, though we invite teachers to use this book in the best way that fits their pedagogical approach. We have included preparatory exercises that isolate new skills and highlight tricky spots worth drilling, emphasizing key techniques that we find are essential to building a well-rounded cellist. The “Piece Information” tab under “Music” provides additional, cultural context and YouTube videos. Once you purchase the book, you will have access to our references recordings: each piece performed with cello and piano.

Acknowledgements

The Resonance Method Team extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many people and organizations who offered feedback, advice, and financial support to make this book possible. Special thanks to Lisa Husseini for her indispensable counsel and to Melanie Zeck at the Library of Congress for her cultural guidance. Resonance: A Multicultural Cello Method is supported in part by an alumni grant and mentorship from the New World Symphony BLUE (Build, Learn, Understand, Experiment) program, which empowers the NWS network of artistic entrepreneurs to redefine the future of classical music through inclusive community and equity-focused initiatives. NWS BLUE projects are made possible with support from the Maxine and Stuart Frankel Foundation and NWS’s Fund for New Ventures. This book has also received grant support from Eastman’s Institute for Music Leadership’s funds from the Paul R. Judy Center for Innovation and Research.We are grateful to esteemed pedagogues Pam Devenport and Avi Friedlander for their helpful feedback on earlier drafts of the book. We also acknowledge the following individuals who supported Resonance Method’s vision through generous financial donations: Andrew Dunn, Jeremy Glen and Melissa Colangelo, Jim Glen and Connie Cook Glen, Heather Hadley, Kathleen Kemp, Daniel Ketter, Karen Morris, Shaianne Osterreich and Reuben Peeters, and Zachary Sweet.