What
is a Recorder?
The
recorder is a flute-like musical instrument whose
history reaches back to Europe in the middle ages.
It plays more than two octaves of a fully chromatic
scale. That means it is not a toy or primitive instrument,
but is entirely able to play all styles and periods
of Western music.
Because
the recorder is basically a whistle, new players have
no difficulty getting it to sound, unlike brass or
reed instruments.
Recorders
are widely used for introducing grade school children
to the fundamentals of music because recorders are
relatively inexpensive and easy to play. Plastic recorders
cost as little as $5 and are available at most music
stores. Serious players can purchase more expensive
wooden recorders. Recorders can be played as solo
instruments, or in consorts using recorders with different
pitches. Whether playing alone or in a large orchestra,
recorder playing can provide hours of musical fun!
Have
fun!
Playing
the recorder is fun for both beginners and experienced
players. Beginners will quickly be enjoying folk tunes
and renaissance dances. A rich repertoire of works
was composed in baroque times, and other music composed
or adapted for recorder provides a lifetime of pleasure.
Solo playing is rewarding, and the opportunities for
group playing are greatly enhanced by the variety
of published music.
Try
something new and rewarding!
Develop
skills you never knew you had! Enjoy playing music
on the recorder and make new friends. Learn history
when you work on older music.
This six-panel
brochure is relevant for, and available to, all Colorado
recorder organizations. If you can use copies to promote
recorder playing, click the graphic above to download.
