New Resource: Free Cello Intermediate Video Lessons
Irish cellist, composer, and educator Ailbhe McDonagh has announced the launch of her new Cello Intermediate video series (see here).
Following the success of her Cello Basics series, which helped beginners establish their posture and bow hold, this new course is designed to guide students through the exciting, and sometimes tricky, transition to intermediate playing.
As teachers, we know that the intermediate stage is where the cello truly opens up. It is where students discover the “singing” voice of the instrument through vibrato, explore the full range of the fingerboard, and tackle more complex bowing techniques. However, it is also a stage where tension can creep in if new movements aren’t learned correctly.
What the Series Covers
This is a comprehensive, step-by-step curriculum consisting of 36 free videos. The series begins by establishing the core intermediate skills:
Vibrato: a 3-part mini-series breaking down the arm mechanics, the “plant” exercise, and how to control speed and intonation. Watch the introduction to vibrato here.
Intonation focus: techniques for zoning in on tuning, including using “drones” and double stops to check resonance. See the tuning practice lesson here.
Shifting: a detailed breakdown of the four types of shifts, starting with “same finger” and “substitution” shifts. Watch introduction to shifting (part 1) here.
Looking Ahead: the Full Curriculum
As the series progresses, it moves into more advanced territory. The curriculum is designed to support students through grade exams and standard repertoire. Upcoming videos include:
Cello positions: detailed guides to 4th, 3rd, 2nd, half position, and thumb position.
Technique: extensions, double stops, harmonics (natural and false), and tenor clef.
Advanced bowing: improving tone quality, ricochet, staccato off the string, and advanced string crossings.
Etudes & practice: dedicated lessons on standard cello etudes (Sevcik, Feuillard, Cossman) and strategies on “how to practice”.
A Resource for Students
These videos are intended to support the work done in private lessons, giving students a visual reference to practice with at home. Whether you are a teacher looking for supplementary material or a cellist looking to improve your skills, this series serves as a valuable companion on the musical journey.
You can follow the full series as it updates weekly on her website or YouTube channel.
Watch the Full Playlist
You can view the entire Cello Intermediate series in order right here:
🔗 Watch the full playlist on YouTube
Who Is This For?
This series is perfect for:
- Beginners and intermediate cellists of all ages learning on their own or with a teacher
- Adult learners looking for structured, visual guidance
- Parents supporting their child’s cello practice
- Teachers assigning focused video support between lessons
Each lesson is short, focused, and clearly explained, ideal for busy learners or regular review.
About Ailbhe McDonagh
Ailbhe McDonagh is an Irish cellist, composer, and professor of cello known for her expressive playing and clear educational style. Her teaching balances musicality with technique, and she brings a professional, supportive tone to every video. With this cello pedagogy video series, she offers an accessible and high-quality foundation for anyone learning the cello.
This is one of the best free beginner cello resources currently available online and comes highly recommended for anyone starting their cello journey.