The objective of the Beginner's Guide to the Cello is to provide interesting material with which the conscientious teacher can "build" a cellistic posture of the hands and body and lay the groundwork for future development. Specific requirements of a technical nature, such as playing in the various parts of the bow and holding the fingers in place, have been omitted for several reasons. First, to present a clear and uncluttered page, which is a primary obligation in writing for the untrained eye; and second, the use of such signs and abbreviations in elementary instruction is considered to be less effective than verbal directions from the teacher. The teacher is free, therefore, to exercise his or her own judgment and impose his or her own requirements in these matters. Careful attention has been given to the selection of material which provides a proper balance between necessary drill and a melodious musical experience. The acquisition of technical facility has been reserved for appropriate supplementary etudes. The entire series of four books is a preliminary step to the author's Fundamentals of Violoncello Technique. Books One and Two of the Beginner's Guide to the Cello are designed to introduce the first position with both the upward and downward extension of the left hand and to acquaint the student with a basic technique of bowing.