At first sight, this publication appears to merely be a collection of pieces due to the lack of drier technical studies that are characteristic of tutors. Yet the selection of the works, their order according to the development of ensemble playing, and the advice towards technical realization included after the foreword - these all make this publication a tutor. The works form a cross-section of a longer period of the history of chamber music and offer an insight into the different methods of composition.

Volume I contains easy chamber music from the Renaissance to Viennese Classicism for two violins and cello, in the first position. (In some works the 2nd violin part or others the cello part, respectively, can also be played on the viola.) The easier pieces can be played after two years of active instrumental study.