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For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements for Strings. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will initiate the practice of beginning scales and arpeggios (Klengel method) to familiarize the student with major and minor scales, different scale modalities, and different key signatures. I will also start them on a progressive melodic musical method book, such as The Art of Cello Playing (Louis Potter), so that they can enjoy playing nice music pieces that could be played later in a recital. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level.
Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I feel that it is very important to be supportive and encouraging to each student and to verbally acknowledge their accomplishments. If a student expresses a desire to learn a certain technique or style of music, I will support that desire with my best effort and within my abilities. I also provide tips/tools and concepts to help students get rid of unnecessary tension in the hands and to experience suppleness in the hands arms and joints, so that they develop proper technique.