Beginning Recorder 3 - Small Group Class (Ages 7-10)

Welcome to Beginning Recorder 3!  I am excited at the prospect of teaching your young musician!  In this course, we will continue learning the basics of playing the recorder, along with adding some new techniques (playing in different dynamics, tempos and slurring our notes).  We will continue focusing on proper posture, fingering positions, note names and values.  We will also play a variety of games and exercises to help with learning notes names, practicing rhythms and learning proper fingering and techniques.  For this course, you will need the Pearson & Barden "Recorder Excellence" book (student edition) and a soprano recorder.  The prerequisite for this course is Beginning Recorder 2 or an equivalent course with knowledge of how to read and play the notes B, A, G, C, D and F# on the recorder.  This is a learner led course.  

During each session, your child can expect to review previous concepts, play the assigned pieces, receive feedback and possibly play a game (if time allows) to strengthen the understanding of the concepts being taught.  In addition to the group playing along with the teacher, each student will have the opportunity to play individually for the class.  This allows me to give individual feedback and check for understanding.

Topics*
*Subject to change based on students' progress and understanding of the material being taught.

Week 1:
Review notes B, A, G, C, D F #, note values and basics of instrument (posture, embouchure, care of instrument)
Introduce dynamics, tempo
Songs - Paw Paw Patch, Ronde, Some Folks Do

Week 2:
Review - continue mastering tempo and dynamics on last week's songs
If students are ready, we will introduce E and 1st and 2nd endings
Songs - Yangtze Boat Chantey, Rain Rain, The Little Fish

Week 3:
Review
Introduce key signature, continue working on tempo and dynamics of previous songs
Songs - The Horse's Branle, Theme from Symphony No. 4

Week 4:
We will use this class to practice previous songs and to ensure understanding of material. 
If students are ready...
Introduce F, slur
Songs - Slippery Slurs, Nimble Fingers, Lullaby

Week 5:
Review - Continue mastering tempo, dynamics and slurring technique
If students are ready, introduce D, new dynamics
Songs - Danza Giovanni, Barcolle, Sailor's Song

Week 6:
Review
Introduce C and ledger lines
Songs - Smooth Sailing, Roses from the South, Theme from "Hansel and Gretel"