The recorder is a woodwind instrument of the family of internal duct flutes. It is played by blowing air across a fipple, a small hole in the side of the instrument. The air travels through the instrument and produces sound by vibrating against the edge of a hole.
The recorder is one of the most ancient of musical instruments, and has been found in archaeological sites from as early as the Neolithic period. It was first popularised in Europe in the 16th century, and remained popular until the 18th century.
Today, the recorder remains a popular instrument, particularly for beginners and children, as it is relatively easy to play. However, it is also played by professional musicians, and there is a large repertoire of music for the recorder.
Parts of the Recorder:
* Head joint: contains the fipple and the embouchure hole.
* Body: contains the tone holes.
* Foot joint: contains the bell and the key.
How to Play the Recorder:
1. Hold the recorder with your left hand, with your thumb covering the thumb hole and your other fingers covering the tone holes.
2. Place your right hand over the recorder, with your thumb on the key.
3. Blow air across the fipple, and adjust your embouchure (the way you blow) to produce a clear sound.
4. Use your fingers to cover and uncover the tone holes to play different notes.
Recorder Music:
There is a large repertoire of music for the recorder, including:
* Solo recorder music
* Recorder ensemble music
* Recorder and other instruments music
* Recorder and orchestra music
Famous Recorder Players:
There are many famous recorder players, including:
* Frans Brüggen
* Michala Petri
* Paul O'Dette
* Walter van Hauwe
Recorder Resources:
There are many resources available to help you learn more about the recorder, including:
* Recorder clubs and organisations
* Recorder teachers and schools
* Recorder music shops
* Recorder books and websites