Introduction to Recorders

4thGrade General MusicMiss Angela MooreDecember 4th, 2003

What is a recorder?

The recorders we will be using are small, plastic, woodwind instruments. They come in 3 pieces or 1 piece, and produce sound when we blow into them.

Recorder Rules….

Always remember these when playing the

recorder!

#1. Always bring your recorder to class when

instructed.

#2. Keep your recorder in “rest” position when

you’re not playing.

“Rest” position means your recorder is resting in

your lap.

#3. Never laugh at another student when

he is playing the recorder.

The Golden Rule of Recorder Playing…

#4. Only play when you are instructed to

do so!!

Playing the Recorder…

This information will help you correctly play the

recorder.

Posture

Sit tall, or stand straight.

This helps us breathe deeply and get a good sound out of the recorder.

Holding the Recorder

Left hand on top Right hand on bottom Left hand thumb plays the hole at

the back. Hold the recorder in front of your

body with your elbows slightly away from your sides.

Breathing

Always take deep, low breaths. Breathe during rests and other breaks in the songs.

Making sounds

Place the mouthpiece in between your lips, with ½” in your mouth.

Whisper into the mouthpiece. Say “du-du-du” or “tu-tu-tu.”

Don’t blow too hard.

Caring for the Recorder

After playing, clean the inside with a swab or piece of cloth.

Occasionally wash the mouthpiece with warm, soapy water. Make sure to dry it afterwards.

Now it’s time to start making music!

Today we will learn to play 3 notes: B, A, and

G.

To remember them, just remember they spell the

word BAG!

“B” is played by holding your fingers over the hole in the back, and the top

hole in the front.

“A” is played by holding your fingers over the hole in the back and the top 2

holes in the front.

“G” is played by holding your fingers over the hole in the back and the top 3

holes in the front.

Finally……..

2 very important details…..

Don’t forget to practice!

Most importantly…HAVE FUN!!