It’s Recorder Time!

January, 2020

Dear 3rd Grade Families,

I am pleased to announce that we are starting our recorder unit this week! The students have been anxiously waiting to receive their recorders and I know they are looking forward to learning many songs.

Playing the recorder requires the students to practice the skills at home in order to play successfully during class. In class, each student will receive a recorder and a practice sheet. Each week, a new sheet will list what they should practice for the week. I recommend that students practice for 10-minute sessions, and that they try to do this 4-5 times a week. This is HOMEWORK. I promise – the squeaky part only lasts a very short time!

Simply playing through the whole song is not practicing! The best way to practice is to split the song up into two measure sections. Work on one section until you can play it. Gradually add on the other sections. The best way you can help your child succeed with the recorder is to show an interest in what they are learning. Ask them to play a song for you, or sit with them while they are practicing. Let them be the teacher and explain to you how to read music. They will love showing off what they can do!

I know the students will learn a great deal from this unit. Thank you for supporting them in this effort. If you have any questions or concerns about the program or the websites, please email me at [email protected] or call me at school.

Sincerely,

Shawna Rosen

Music Teacher, Middlefork School