All the research reinforces the positive effect of performing a "first concert" with your beginning string players as soon as possible, and this collection was written to help you create a successful and exciting event. All of the compositions in this book use only the notes and skills covered in the first 10 - 12 pages of most typical method books. Of the thirteen pieces, five are pizzicato, and four others may be performed pizzicato or arco, providing you with the flexibility to select material that matches your students' abilities. The easy piano accompaniments are interesting and creative (not the usual "boom-chuck" material! ) and all the accompaniments help create a specific mood for each piece. Five of the compositions include CD accompaniment tracks that will make your students feel like they are on the soundstage of a major movie studio.