Measures of Success for String Orchestra

Teachers keep coming back to the Violin Book 1, Viola Book 1, and Cello Book 1 volumes by Gail V. Barnes, which form the core of the series. The method books progress logically through Book 2 volumes for each instrument, allowing students to advance while maintaining consistent pedagogical approach across your entire section.

Gail V. Barnes authored the complete Measures of Success method book series, creating a unified pedagogical approach across all four string instruments. Her systematic design ensures that violins, violas, cellos, and basses learn complementary material that works together in ensemble settings.

Carrie Lane Gruselle brings classroom experience to the series, holding degrees in music education with Suzuki emphasis from the University of Wisconsin system. She teaches elementary and middle level strings in the Appleton Area School District and works with cello students at Lawrence University's Arts Academy, grounding her contributions in real studio and classroom settings.

Brian Balmages is widely known for compositions that span orchestral, band, and chamber settings, with works performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and Sydney Opera House. He received the A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association and won the 2020 NBA William D. Revelli Composition Award, bringing substantial credentials to educational string writing.