Beginning Recorder - Level 1

In this 4 week class learners will learn the basics of playing the recorder. They will practice proper finger placement, mouth & tongue placement, and breathing for recorder playing. Classes will include finger exercises to increase finger dexterity as well as tongue and breathing exercises to help learners produce the most beautiful sound they can on the recorder. They will learn how to play the notes C to C (or Do to Do) and practice these notes using the C major scale. Throughout the class learners will play different musical games, including call and response and imitation games, to help practice their skills. Learners will also learn different songs and melodies so they can practice at home.

Week 1: Introduction to the recorder
Parts of the recorder
Finger placement
Mouth and tongue placement and proper breathing
Finger exercises

Week 2: B - A - G
Introduction of notes B - A - G
Introduction to notes (B, A, G) on the staff
2 songs

Week 3: Add D - E - F
Review B - A - G and previous week's songs
Introduction of D - E - F (finger placement and notes on the staff) 
2 new songs

Week 4: Add the C's
Review all previous notes and songs
Introduction of high and low C (finger placement and notes on the staff)
2 new songs 
 
This is a beginner level class, but for learners with no previous experience with the recorder, the Recorder Basics class is highly encouraged. The Recorder Basics one time class will review the basics of the recorder and introduce learners to the proper finger placement, mouth & tongue placement, and breathing techniques for playing recorder.