I recently shared my process of introducing new pieces for the recorder in a blog post for The Music Crew. Check it out by clicking here or the image above. Lots of awesome tips for recorder magic!
TLDR? Here are the steps in a nutshell:
- Read the lyrics – just have the class read them any old way that sounds natural.
- Clap the rhythm – display only the rhythm on the board, 1-line staff, no pitches, lyrics, etc.
- Clap the rhythm while reading the lyrics – display rhythm and lyrics only, do this as many times as needed.
- Play the rhythm on one note – for example, play the Hot Cross Buns rhythm only on “B.”
- Review notes on the lines and space – only review notes that are in the piece.
- Identify the note names in the piece and speak them in rhythm – display complete piece, write letters on notes at first and then take them away.
- Sing the solfege – display the pitches and sing them.
- Sing the song – it gets the melody into students’ heads and makes it easier for them to self-correct later.
- Review fingerings needed for the piece.
- Finger and play the piece while articulating a syllable like “doo” or “too” – no recorders in mouths at this time.
- Play the piece on recorders – write letters on notes at first and then take them away.
- Isolate and break down any problem measures if needed.
Happy teaching!
