How to play the Soprano Recorder from Udemy

A recorder is such a magical instrument. It is so simple but can produce some amazing and relaxing sounds. It is simple in design and simple in its fingering. If you have ever thought of learning any woodwind instrument like flute, oboe, saxophone, or clarinet, then learning the recorder first may give you a huge head start when you learn these slightly harder instruments. Recorders are inexpensive and small you can bring it anywhere and not be worried about it breaking or getting stolen.

In this course we are going to go over the basics of:

Holding your recorder
Playing notes
Breathing
Music fundamentals (basic)

Just right in and start learning how to play this wonderful instrument.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Learn the basics of how to play a soprano recorder
Learn the basics of music

Learn a couple of songs on the recorder

Learn the basics of how to play a soprano recorder
Learn the basics of music
Learn a couple of songs on the recorder

Syllabus

Introduction

Learn how to hold, clean, and identify the different parts of the recorder

Overview of the Recorder

How to Hold the Recorder

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Provides a foundation for learning other woodwind instruments like the flute, oboe, saxophone, or clarinet, which may appeal to learners interested in expanding their musical skills

Covers fundamental music concepts, such as reading sheet music and understanding sharps and flats, which are essential for any musician regardless of their instrument

Teaches how to play the recorder by watching a piano, which offers an alternative approach for those who prefer not to read sheet music or lack access to it

Includes practice songs like "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and "You Are My Sunshine," which are simple and recognizable tunes that can motivate beginners and build confidence

Introduces scales and trills, which are essential exercises for developing finger dexterity and breath control, and are applicable to playing any musical instrument

Focuses on the soprano recorder, which may not be applicable to other types of recorders, such as alto or tenor, limiting the transferability of skills to those instruments

Reviews summary

Fundamentals of playing the soprano recorder

According to students, this course provides a largely positive introduction for anyone looking to learn the soprano recorder from scratch. Learners appreciate that it starts with the absolute basics like holding and breathing and clearly explains how to play the initial notes in the key of C. The inclusion of practice songs is highlighted as a great way to apply what's learned immediately. While the course covers basic sheet music fundamentals, some note that this section is very brief. The reviews suggest this course is ideal for absolute beginners but may lack the depth needed for more advanced players or those seeking comprehensive music theory.

Basic overview of reading sheet music.

"It gives a necessary introduction to reading basic sheet music notation."

"Don't expect to be a pro reader, but it covers treble clef and note values."

"Only covers the very basics, but useful if you're new to reading music."

Explores more notes and techniques.

"Beyond the basic notes, it covers the full range of the first two octaves."

"Includes useful exercises for scales and trills which are great practice."

"Goes into all the possible notes you can play on a soprano recorder."

Learn easy songs to practice skills.

"Learning songs like 'Twinkle Twinkle' right away made the process fun and rewarding."

"The practice songs section is great for immediately applying the notes you've learned."

"Enjoyed being able to play a few simple tunes quickly."

Clear instruction on initial notes.

"Mastering the first few notes in C was made easy with the clear fingering charts and demos."

"The practice drills for the basic notes were really effective for building muscle memory."

"Clear explanation of the initial notes needed."

Covers holding, breathing, and basics clearly.

"The first sections explaining how to hold the recorder and proper breathing were very helpful."

"I finally understood the basics of air control thanks to the exercises."

"Detailed look at the parts of the instrument and keeping it clean."

Best suited for those starting from scratch.

"This course is fantastic if you literally know nothing about music or the recorder."

"If you have some musical background, you might find this moves too slowly."

"Perfect first step, but you'll need another resource to go beyond beginner level."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to play the Soprano Recorder with these activities:

Review Basic Music Theory

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Reinforce your understanding of music theory concepts like notes, scales, and rhythm, which are essential for playing the recorder effectively.

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Review online resources or textbooks on basic music theory.
Practice identifying notes on a staff and understanding time signatures.
Complete practice exercises on rhythm and scales.

Explore 'Recorder Magic' by Barbara Lawther

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Deepen your understanding of recorder techniques and repertoire by exploring a dedicated recorder instruction book.

View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Recorder Magic' by Barbara Lawther.
Work through the exercises and songs in the book, focusing on areas where you need more practice.
Compare the book's approach to the course's teachings and identify any differences or additional insights.

Practice Scales and Arpeggios

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Improve your finger dexterity and intonation by practicing scales and arpeggios in various keys.

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Select a few scales and arpeggios to practice each day.
Use a metronome to maintain a consistent tempo.
Focus on playing each note clearly and in tune.

Three other activities

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Record Yourself Playing a Song

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Assess your progress and identify areas for improvement by recording yourself playing a song from the course.

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Choose a song from the course that you want to record.
Practice the song until you feel comfortable playing it.
Record yourself playing the song.
Listen to the recording and identify areas where you can improve.

Read 'The Early History of the Recorder' by David Lasocki

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Gain a deeper appreciation for the recorder by learning about its history and evolution.

View The Recorder (Yale Musical Instrument Series) on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'The Early History of the Recorder' by David Lasocki.
Read the book and take notes on key events and figures in the recorder's history.
Reflect on how the recorder's history influences your understanding and appreciation of the instrument.

Explore Advanced Recorder Techniques

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Expand your recorder skills by exploring advanced techniques such as ornamentation, vibrato, and alternate fingerings through online tutorials.

Show steps

Search for online tutorials on advanced recorder techniques.
Practice the techniques demonstrated in the tutorials.
Incorporate the new techniques into your playing.

Career center

Learners who complete How to play the Soprano Recorder will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Hobbyist Musician

A hobbyist musician plays music for their own enjoyment and personal enrichment. This course may be useful for aspiring hobbyist musicians looking to learn a simple instrument. The course introduces the basics of playing the recorder. It also covers music fundamentals and simple songs. It is relatively easy to get started with the recorder, so the basics that are covered in this course can provide the necessary instruction for beginners to become hobby musicians.

See salaries and explore the career path for Hobbyist Musician

Private Music Instructor

A private music instructor works one on one with individual students to teach them an instrument or vocal technique. If you're interested in becoming a private music instructor, this course on playing the soprano recorder may be helpful. This course can help build familiarity with the fundamentals of music. Lessons in this course include how to hold a recorder, how to breathe, and other techniques for playing in tune. The course also teaches basic sheet music, which would be useful to a private instructor looking to play with their students.

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Elementary School Teacher

An elementary school teacher is responsible for educating young children in a variety of subjects, including music. Taking this course may be useful for an elementary school teacher seeking to incorporate music into their curriculum. The course covers the fundamentals of playing the recorder. This is an instrument that's accessible to even very young children. By becoming familiar with the recorder through this course, an elementary school teacher can enhance their lessons. The course goes through techniques for playing, breath control, and reading music. It also includes examples of popular songs, which could be helpful for educators.

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Early Childhood Educator

An early childhood educator works with young children in preschools or daycare centers. This course may be useful for integrating music into their activities. The course introduces a simple instrument and covers music fundamentals. This can provide tools for engaging children with music through playing a recorder. The course goes over simple songs, which can improve interactions with children. Additionally, the recorder is inexpensive and portable.

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Music Teacher

A career as a music teacher involves instructing students on musical instruments and music theory. For those aspiring to become a music teacher, this course may be useful for understanding fundamental musical concepts. It introduces the basics of playing an instrument, which can be very helpful for teaching beginners. The recorder is simple, so the basics of playing the recorder, as taught in this course, may build a foundation for playing other instruments and for teaching them. This course covers fundamental concepts such as breath control, reading sheet music, and playing simple songs, all of which would be beneficial both for a music teacher to know and to teach.

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Band Teacher

Band teachers instruct students in playing various musical instruments, conducting rehearsals, and leading performances. While this course focuses on the recorder, it may be useful for aspiring band teachers. The course introduces music fundamentals and basic playing techniques. It also goes over the importance of breath control. The course also touches upon reading sheet music and practicing scales. These are essential for playing in a band and should be covered by a band teacher.

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Choir Director

Choir directors lead groups of singers, selecting music and guiding rehearsals to create cohesive performances. This course may be useful for a choir director. Understanding music theory and the fundamentals of playing an instrument can help in teaching vocalists. The course covers music fundamentals, reading sheet music, and playing simple songs. All of these areas can improve your experience as a choir director. Learning the material in this course may allow a choir director to demonstrate proper techniques.

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Music Therapist

Music therapists use music to address the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Therapists. Learning an instrument such as a recorder provides a foundation for understanding music's impact on the human experience. The course introduces the basics of breath control, fingering, and music reading, skills which help build a foundation for more advanced study. Moreover, the course explores playing melodies and arrangements, which can be helpful for therapeutic applications.

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Recreational Therapist

Recreational therapists use recreational activities, including music, to improve the physical, emotional, and social well-being of individuals. This course may be useful for those looking to add music to their therapeutic toolkit. The course introduces the basics of playing the recorder. It also covers music fundamentals and simple songs. These skills can provide a basis for building therapeutic interventions involving music and the recorder.

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Camp Counselor

Camp counselors supervise children and lead activities at summer camps. This course can be useful for camp counselors, adding to their repertoire of skills. The course introduces the basics of playing the recorder. It also covers simple songs. Because the recorder is inexpensive, it can be played around a campfire without worrying about damaging it. This course may allow a camp counselor to bring song and cheer to campers.

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Music Store Sales Associate

Music store sales associates assist customers in finding instruments and musical accessories. For those interested in this career path, this course can build knowledge of musical instruments. The course introduces the basics of holding, playing, and cleaning a recorder. Additionally, this course can build understanding of music fundamentals and sheet music. This may allow a sales associate to connect with customers and advise them about recorders.

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Music Journalist

A music journalist writes articles and reviews about music, musicians, and musical events. Although writing is the primary focus, a basic understanding of music helps build credibility. This course introduces the fundamentals of playing the recorder. The course also covers music fundamentals and basic sheet music. All of this can enhance a journalist's understanding of music. This course may allow a journalist to write articles with confidence.

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Arts Administrator

Arts administrators oversee the operations of arts organizations, including music programs. While this typically requires managerial skills, having some understanding of music and instruments helps. This course introduces the basics of playing the recorder. It also goes over music fundamentals, sheet music, and basic songs. This exposure to music may facilitate communication with musicians and improve decision making.

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Instrument Repair Technician

Instrument repair technicians diagnose and fix problems with musical instruments. Though this job typically requires extensive training, this course may be useful. It can build understanding of a simple woodwind instrument. The course goes over how to clean the recorder and how to identify its different parts. It may also build sensitivity with regard to notes and sounds. These fundamentals may be helpful for learning more about instrument repair.

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Musical Instrument Designer

Musical instrument designers create new or improved instruments. Although this profession typically requires advanced training in acoustics and engineering, this course may be useful. It introduces the basics of playing a simple instrument, which helps build a foundation for understanding musical instrument design principles. Through learning about the recorder, the basics of breathing, note production, and instrument handling may increase understanding about instrument design.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How to play the Soprano Recorder.

Alter Ego

Save

Provides a comprehensive guide to playing the recorder, covering basic techniques, music reading, and a variety of songs. It useful reference for beginners and intermediate players alike. The book offers a structured approach to learning the recorder, complementing the course's introductory lessons. It can be used as a textbook or as additional reading to deepen your understanding of recorder playing.

Alter Ego: A Novel

Paperback

The Recorder

Save

Delves into the historical origins and development of the recorder. It provides a deeper appreciation for the instrument's rich past. While not directly related to playing techniques, understanding the recorder's history can enhance your connection to the music you play. This book is more valuable as additional reading to provide context and historical depth.

The Recorder (Yale Musical Instrument Series)

Hardcover

The Recorder (Yale Musical Instrument Series)

Kindle Edition

How to play the Soprano Recorder

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Fundamentals of playing the soprano recorder

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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