Introduction to Recorders 4 th Grade General Music Miss Angela Moore December 4 th, 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!!