ABSTRACT
Both full and string orchestra repertoire classifications are broken down into six levels: grades one through to six—respectively from the easiest to the most challenging. For instance, educational publisher Alfred, under the direction of Bob Phillips, Director of String Publications, in its orchestra catalog meticulously breaks down the first five levels of the system into halves: level 1/2, level 1 and level 1-1/2 with precise parameters of key and time signatures, instrumentation, ranges, rhythm, and special considerations. The string teacher must peruse the considered repertoire painstakingly for its musical value, technical benefits, and pedagogical substance. The “go/no-go decision” made by every safe pilot in aviation is analogous to picking string repertoire: part of being a contemplative string teacher is knowing when to accept a certain challenge and when to reject it.
