Fiddle Magic is a series of 180 progressive exercises that emphasize development of the left hand position, leading to a more refined finger motion. Though it is geared toward young beginners and includes many charming, colorful pictures, it introduces some techniques not usually presented beginning players, such as left-hand pizzicato, double-stops, and shifting. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of the fourth finger, which is often neglected or overlooked in the beginning stages of learning a stringed instrument. Fiddle Magic can serve as a useful learning and teaching supplement to many violin methods. Included in the book is a study key that outlines specific skills addressed by each exercise. By Sally O'Reilly. Published by Neil A. Kjos Music. Difficulty: ASTA grade 1