What is the 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.
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What's Happening This Month:
Monophonic music from Medieval Europe, The Middle East, The Balkans and the Jewish Diaspora with: Daphna Mor
Session Dates for this season:
September 20, 2020 Jennifer Carpenter
October 18, 2020 Lisette Kielson
November 15, 2020 Jennifer Carpenter
December 20, 2020 Heloise Degrugillier
January 17, 2021 Jennifer Carpenter
February 21, 2021 Daphna Mor
March 21, 2021 Annette Bauer
April 18, 2021 Jennifer Carpenter
2020-2021 Board Members:
President: Sharon Bolles
Vice President: Bill Urban
Program Director: Woody Colahan
Treasurer: Woody Colahan
Outreach Coordinator: Gail Nickless
Librarian: Susan Osborn
Newsletter Editor: Karyn Pocernich