Recorder Play-Alongs to Rock the Elementary Classroom
Elementary music classrooms often rely on the use of recorders as a simple, accessible instrument that's perfect for introducing young students to the world of music. Recorder play-along tracks, in particular, are an excellent way to engage students in learning and mastering the instrument, all while keeping things fun and entertaining.
As an elementary music teacher, teaching the recorder can be an exciting but challenging experience. One of the key notes that students often start with is the B note. And here at Mr. Henry's Henry Music, we have you covered! We will provide you with tips and tricks on how to teach the B note effectively, along with a fun and engaging YouTube video that your students will love.
There is a variety of engaging songs & play-along specifically tailored to young students learning the recorder. From hand position songs to playful rhythm tutorials that you can get for FREE with the Ultimate Recorder Resource educational and entertaining material perfect for the elementary music classroom.
Getting Started! 🎼
Many teachers start with the 'B' note as the first note to teach. First and foremost, it's essential to ensure that your students have a basic understanding of music theory. Before starting on the B note, make sure that your students understand the concept of notes, and how they are read on the staff. A super fun song & video to have your students become "treble clef reading superstars" in The Treble Claf Rap! Students even play a game within the video where they identify the notes on the lines and spaces together as a class.
Rockin' the B Note 🐝
Next, introduce the fingering for the B note by rapping...
"With your left hand, put your thumb up high, Now tilt to the side and give a slide-slide, To cover the hole that's found in the back, Getting closer to the B note, Whatcha' think of that"?
This short rap is a super fun way to make sure the back hole is covered completely and with repetition, students will start to rap along with you! 😎
Then continue with...
"Make sure the back hole is covered completely, We bring out the pointer finger, Make it routinely. Cover up to the top hole found in the front, Press firm, no leaks, Light air is a must"!
Ensure that your students are holding the recorder correctly, with the left hand on top and the right hand on the bottom. You could even use the Left Hand, Over RightSongto help students remember the correct hand position!
Once your students have mastered the fingering, encourage them to practice playing the B note in isolation. It's essential to let them play the note repeatedly until they can produce a clear and consistent sound. Make sure that your students are using light warm air and whispering either "tu" or "du".
A simple, yet effective recorder strategy to isolate notes is to include echo playing. Students must listen to a four-beat rhythmic pattern with sung or performed by the teacher and students "echo play" the pattern back.
One of the best ways to keep your students engaged and motivated when learning a new note is to make the process fun and exciting. This is where the YouTube video "Recorder Play Along: B Note Rap" comes in. This video is a fun and engaging way to teach the 'B' note to your students.
The "Recorder Play Along: B Note Rap" video features a catchy rap song that your students can sing and play along with. The song teaches the fingering for the 'B' note and encourages your students to practice playing the note in a fun and exciting way. The video also includes colorful animations that illustrate the fingerings and the placement of the B note on the staff.
When teaching any note on the recorder, it's essential to be patient and encouraging. Learning a new note can be challenging, and it's normal for some students to struggle at first. Encourage your students to practice regularly and provide them with positive feedback and support. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and let them know that their hard work and dedication are paying off.
Grab a fun FREE recorder lesson with high-quality videos, slide presentations & printables to get your recorder program started in the right direction!
Mr. Henry is a seasoned elementary music teacher, in the public and private music world that offers a top-notch online piano course for kids and a variety of music education resources that teachers & kids love!
MILLIONS of views on YouTube with thousands of teachers using the entertaining & educational videos in the classroom! 🎶
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