Recorder World
Want to help your child with the Recorder? You don't have to be an expert, all it takes is a little encouragement and helping them remember these 3 simple rules....
1. Blow softly.
This is the most important rule. I tell them to imagine they are blowing through a skinny straw (like a coffee stirring straw)
2. Don't let any air escape.
Make sure you are covering the correct holes completely. You can't have "lazy fingers."
3. Use your tongue.
When blowing into the Recorder, don't blow like a whistle. Instead, use your tongue to control the air. I tell students to think of the word "do."
Don't know how to read music?
You can still help your child with the Recorder. If they aren't sure about a note, remind them to check their Recorder Karate packet. It has all kinds of helpful information. All you need to do is encourage them to practice and remind them to practice in steps.
Step 1: Clap the rhythm.
Step 2: Practice in "chin position."
(Figure out what the pitches are and practice the fingerings with the recorder under the chin.)
Step 3: Try playing the song. If you get to a tricky part, practice just that part a few times. Then try putting it all together.
As always, contact me if you have any questions. I'm happy to help!
Here are some links to a few great Recorder and note-readign sites. Click on each picture below to check them out.
