I know there was a question here recently about studies for Grade 4-ish but I've been looking at the Mary Cohen books (online) and they look really good.

Does anyone have a favourite? I would love to order at least four but I can't afford it just now . 'Technique Takes Off' looks good and so does 'Technique Flies High'.

Does anybody use them? The second one says Grade 6+... is it really hard? The first one looks like it might be easier than Grade 4 .

(I'm Grade 4 and looking for something to push my technique a little bit more....)

Ooh great question Lottie - I'll be watching for responses!! I really need to get a more focussed approach and routine to my practice.

I've started to try schradiek and sevcik but the exercises really are dull - would like something more user friendly!

Yes, Technique Takes off and Technique Flies High are very good, and have been well-liked (for studies!) by my students that have used them. Technique Takes Off has some easier pieces (Grade 4-ish) but the first one was set for a Grade 5 exam a few years ago, and there are others in the book too that should help to push on your technique. Technique Flies High is probably Grade 5-6-ish.

You might also like to try the Kreutzer Studies, which run from about Grade 5 up. It's all good, solid stuff (suffice it to say that my copy is barely holding together after all these years - it has been well used and sellotaped!) I'd give you the Opus No, except I can't find it just now, but I'm sure some more organised soul will provide it.

(Edit: All of these are more interesting and user-friendly than Sevcik!)

I'm just starting grade 8 and i find technique flies high quite hard in some parts. Well to be honest i haven't looked at it in aaaages as i didn't really like it but i think that's as it was too hard for me when i bought it. I bought it when i was on grade 6 and found it pretty hard, and didn't really like the pieces either =/
But i think i am theee only person who doesn't like it - most people love it!


I loved the Sevcik ones but they get kinda boring (very scalic and repetative), but they're good. I love the Kreutzer studies

Technique Takes Off is my favourite of the Mary Cohen study books and is great for a good grade 4 (I start on them after gr 4 usually) up to around gr 6 ish. I find Tech Flies High to be difficult, and full of 'interesting' techniques. I'd rather use a more conventional (old fashioned?) study book for that level.

I definately agree with KTviola - i couldn't think of the words to explain it though

I just found 'Technique Takes Off' on ebay for £4!!!! (plus postage)

Can't wait for it to arrive now

Hi Fiona!

Did the Technique takes off book arrive? Are you finding it any good?

Hope all is well.

Orla