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Recorder Resources

© Deborah Jeter

Recorders Can Make a Difference

Why do I say that recorders can make a difference? Because . . .

• They are easy to learn, yet challenging
  
• They reinforce sightreading
  
• They prepare the younger children for wind instruments in middle school and high school band and orchestra classes
  
• They blend well with the human voice

I'm sure you have some of your own reasons for teaching recorders, and I'd sure like to hear from you about those reasons. We improve and refine our thought processes and our teaching skills by sharing our experiences, our strengths and weaknesses and what we hope to accomplish over time.

First up is what I consider to be the shareware find of the year, recorder resource-wise. Child's Play by John Child is a superb example of fine artistry. You may beg to differ from me due to perhaps more extensive experience in using recorder software. I have used close to half dozen in the past six months and none, in my opinion, are as user friendly as Mr. Child's. Not only do I like the professional look of this package but I also like the tunes that are selected as examples for the students to listen and from which to learn. He has several lesson categories with built in tests. Give this software a try and see if you are as impressed with it as I. Go to swregnet.com or to John's site at Compuserve. If you still aren't convinced that this is great recorder software, then go to this page and read some more. Oh, and I didn't even mention how the kids can create their own recorder tunes on the spot. Great product, great fun and at a great price ($24.95 US) too.

If you are not familiar with the recorder and the choices involved in getting started, then this FAQ link should be helpful. It describes various types of existing recorders and offers advice on how to decide which might be advantageous to you. There is also a link from the page just offered, titled Adult Recorder Methods and Studies, that has:

• Methods and Studies for Advanced Recorder Players
  
• Materials for the Solo Recorder Player
  
• Ensemble Study Materials
  
• Books About the Recorder
  
• List of Recommended Adult Recorder Methods, Studies, and Books
  

among other things. This is a great place to find answers to questions on which approach to learning or teaching would be best for your circumstances.

The Recorder Home Page is an enormous site. You will find thorough information on the history of the "recorder." What many have termed recorders, though, are actually duct-flutes or pipes. This site dishes out precise information on how to recognize the differences in these "recorder" instruments. There are many wonderful pictures of recorders and wind instruments. I like the software and lesson links at this site too. Plus, there are recorder sound files available.