Christian, self-instructional soprano recorder
The Master's Recorder Course The Master's Recorder Course Book One is the first of two tutorial books on learning to play the recorder. "This book for early recorder players will provide an excellent start at using their instrument to praise the Lord. The selections have been carefully arranged so that young players will very soon be able to play good melodies with simple, yet effective harmonies." (quote from Foreword by Ruth E. Slade, Principle, Whitefield Christian Academy, Scarborough, ON.) The hymns used throughout were chosen on the following points:
All hymns, choruses and songs have been presented in a logical sequence, utilizing each technique or note learned. Book One consists of all Christian content - 6 Duets, 1 quartet, and a total 32 hymns. German and Baroque fingering are CLEARLY SHOWN where applicable, and cord symbols are provided for any accompanying instruments. A complete fingering chart is also included. There is also accompaniment music for Book One available on CD or cassette. Though it is not neccesary, it is a great addition to the course. The tape/CD contains the music for all 32 hymns. You can play along, or just listen to it to get the idea of what the song sounds like. The music is tastefully done and contains no rock music. This melodious music accompaniment is fully orchestrated and can be used for pure listening enjoyment. The Master's Recorder Course This is the second in "The Master's Recorder Course" series and is written in two separate parts. The first part continues from where the first book leaves off. It includes several techniques that were not covered in the first book (e.g. slurs, six-eight time, etc.). This part also covers all major key signatures up to and including 4 sharps and 4 flats, while reinforcing each key with hymns that are introduced in order of difficulty. Also covered are enharmonic notes, minor keys, and modulation. The total musical range studied is from middle C up to high G. It is felt that notes higher than G are not normally used on this instrument but are included in the fingering chart for cases where they are needed. Just as in the first book, both German and Baroque fingerings are shown clearly wherever the difference exists. The second part contains 4-part arrangements that are designed to be used once the appropriate techniques are learned, whether in this book or in the first book of this series. It is not necessary to finish this book in order to play these arrangements. Some of these are even simple enough to play once the middle C note is learned (page 25 of "the Master's Recorder Course" - first book). Even though playing in unison or in 2-parts has its advantages, playing in 4-part harmony encourages the students because of the richer sound produced. The format of the accompaniment tape for the second book is the same as the tape for the first book except for the songs. All the music is done with full orchestra and can be very enjoyable to just listen to as well as use in the course itself. |
