Recorders

It's a very exciting time for the Grade 4 and 3/4 students at Linden Meadows because it is soon time to start learning how to play the recorder!! The Grade 5 students will be continuing on with their recorder journey to get ready for a new band instrument next year. Although it is a simply instrument to learn it can still have its challenges and I would like to talk a little about how to play the recorder.

Always Remember:

1. Sit up tall with recorder pointing down with left hand on top
2. Blow with gentle warm air
3. Cover the holes completely and check your "recorder warts"
4. Listen for beautiful clear tone
5. Clean recorder when finished

If you make a mistake, practice that measure a few times by itself. When you can play that measure correctly three times in a row, try to play the entire piece again correctly.

If you get frustrated, put your recorder away for a few minutes and just sing and clap the rhythm. Try again later after you give yourself a break.

If you feel inspired, compose your own melody on the recorder to share with the class.

Always end your practice time with a song that you love to play. Give a little concert for your family so they can enjoy your music, too!

As soon as all the recorder order money is in I will order them!! In the meantime enjoy this beautiful video of a young girl named Lucie Horsch playing the soprano recorder. This could be you soon!!

-some info taken from Katie Traxler.com

Welcome Back to School!

Welcome Back Everyone! I am excited for another year of music making and seeing all of my wonderful students again. What an amazing summer! I can't wait to hear all of your stories and listen to what you learned from your adventures over the summer. I spent most of my summer with my family at our cottage! We had so much fun playing on the beach, exploring the wildlife, and a little bit of relaxing too. I also had some time to go to Vancouver Island which was such a beautiful place. I even went snorkeling in a river with Salmon!

I have loads of new ideas for songs, dances, composing, and music from around the world! I am also looking forward to new recorder players, musicals, and meeting our new students. See you soon!