How to Play the Recorder

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 156 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time.

There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.

This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.

This article has been viewed 1,239,245 times.

The recorder is a woodwind musical instrument that was popular as early as the 14th century. It produces a soft, flute-like sound. Compared to other instruments, the recorder is relatively easy to play, making it a great first instrument for kids or novice musicians. They come in many different colors and sizes to fit you. Recorders are a good stepping stone to harder blowing instruments that are held vertically, such as oboe or clarinet. [1] X Research source

Part 1 of 4:

Getting Started

The bottom piece should be turned so the hole is slightly to the right when viewed as you would play it.
Some recorders, typically those used in schools, are only one piece.

The back side with one hole should face you. The front side should face away from you.
Do not bite the mouthpiece or allow it to touch your teeth.

Advertisement Part 2 of 4:

Mastering the Basics

If you blow too hard, you will produce a sharp, unpleasant sound. Blow more gently in order to produce a musical sound.
Breathe from the diaphragm and make sure you blow evenly. It will help to keep the sound consistent.

Learn the correct tonguing technique. When playing a note on the recorder, you should start and stop the sound with your tongue. Put your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your teeth. The sound should start and stop there. [5] X Research source

If the note does not come out, or it squeaks, make sure that your fingers are fully covering the holes, and that your fingers stay flat.
Another reason it might squeak is because you're blowing into it too hard.
Keep practicing B until you are comfortable with it.

For example, the B note you just played would be represented on the fingering chart as follows:
- 0 1 - - - - - -
- To play A: Use the same positioning as for a B note, but this time place your left middle finger on the second hole from the top. The fingering chart for an A note is: 0 12 - - - - -
- To play G: Use the same positioning as for an A note, but this time place your left ring finger on the third hole from the top. The fingering chart for a G note is: 0 123 - - - -
- To play C': Cover the back hole with your left thumb, then place your left middle finger on the second hole from the top. The fingering chart for C' is: 0 - 2 - - - - -
- To play D': Leave the back hole uncovered and place your left middle finger on the second hole from the top. The fingering chart for D' is: - - 2 - - - - -
- To play E: Cover the back hole with your left thumb, cover the top three holes with your left index, middle and ring fingers, then place your right index finger on the fourth hole from the top and your right middle finger on the fifth hole from the top. The fingering chart for an E note is: 0 123 45 - -
- To play D: Use the same positioning as for an E note, but this time place your right ring finger on the sixth hole from the top. The fingering chart for a D note is: 0 123 456 -
- To play F#: Use the same positioning as for a D note, but this time remove your right index finger from the fourth hole from the top, leaving all other fingers in place. The fingering chart for an F# is: 0 123 - 56 -
- To play F: Place your left thumb on the back hole, the index, middle and ring fingers of your left hand on the top three holes, the index finger of your right hand on the fourth hole, the ring finger of your right hand on the sixth hole, and the baby finger of your right hand on the seventh hole. The fingering chart for an F is: 0 123 4 - 67
- To play C: When playing a C, all seven holes are covered. Your left thumb will cover the bottom hole, the index, middle and ring fingers of your left hand will cover the top three holes and the index, middle, ring and baby fingers of your right hand will cover the bottom four. The fingering chart for a C is: 0 123 4567
- Mary Had a Little Lamb:
  - B A G A B B B
  - A A A
  - B D' D'
  - B A G A B B B
  - A A B A G
  - D D A A B B A
  - G G F# F# E E D
  - C F F F A G F G A F F A C' D'
  Advertisement Part 3 of 4:
  Progressing to More Advanced Techniques
  
  Practice playing high notes. These can become a bit tricky. To play notes above D', a technique known as "pinching the thumb hole" must be used. Cover 2/3 to 3/4 of the thumb hole using the tip of your thumb. Tighten your lips slightly and blow a little harder than usual.
  - The fingering chart for Bb is: 0 1 - 3 4 - - -
  - The fingering chart for C#' is: - 12 - - - - -
  - You can practice these semitone notes by playing a little ditty called Baa Baa Black Sheep:
    - D D A A B C#' D' B A, G G F# F# E E D
    - Use a diaphragmatic vibrato. Control the flow of air into the recorder by tightening and contracting your diaphragm. Say, "heh heh heh" but do not cut off the flow of air entirely.
    - Use a tongued tremolo. Say, "yer yer yer yer yer yer" using your tongue to control the airflow.
    - Use a finger vibrato. While not being a very practical choice for a sustained vibrato, this method is commonly referred to as a trill. Alternately finger the note and the next higher note. Do not tongue each note, but rapidly play an A B A B A B A sequence.
    Use glissandos. These are created by sliding the fingers off the recorder in quick succession to create a sliding sound.
    Advertisement Part 4 of 4:
    Caring for Your Recorder
    - Plastic recorders can be washed in the dishwasher or in a sink with warm soapy water. Take the pieces apart before washing and be sure to rinse all the soap off.
    - The mouthpiece can be cleaned with an old toothbrush or pipe cleaner.
    - Let your recorder dry completely before playing again.
    - For wooden recorders, disassemble the recorder and carefully wipe the moisture off the inside with a soft cloth.
    Keep your recorder in a case. Keep the recorder in its case when not in use to prevent chipping or damaging the whistle-like hole at the top, because damage there can render the whole recorder useless.
    
    Protect the recorder from extreme temperatures. Protect your instrument against sudden changes of temperature or direct sunlight, and never leave it in a warm car or near a source of heat. This is particularly important for wooden recorders, but is good practice for any instrument.
    - If water has accumulated in the windway, completely cover the window at the top of the recorder with the one hand and exhale forcefully into the windway. This should clear out any excess moisture.
    - If clogging persists, you can clean the windway by mixing one tablespoon of unperfumed dishwasher detergent with three tablespoons of water. Pour this cleaner into the recorder, either through the window or at the bottom, and leave it to sit in the windway for a moment before draining. Allow the recorder to dry completely before you play it again. [12] X Research source
    Advertisement
    Community Q&A
    Why is there always a squeaky sound when I play? Community Answer
    It could be that you're blowing too hard; it takes some practice to properly regulate your airflow to avoid squeaking. Another possibility is that the holes might not be covered completely.
    
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    At what angle should I hold the recorder? Community Answer
    The same angle as a clarinet, about 30-40 degrees. Remember, always bring the instrument to you, do not bring yourself to your instrument.
    
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Is the wooden recorder expensive? Where can I buy one? Top Answerer
    You can buy recorders at a typical music store. The price of the recorder can vary; don't get a really cheap one as the sound won't be very good. The more expensive they are, the better they will sound. The wooden Hohner recorder is a good option, as it isn't ridiculously expensive but is still produces a good sound.
    
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Advertisement Reader Videos Never spend money on a music class unless you are genuinely interested in playing the recorder. Try to remember the first three notes spell the word BAG. Keeping your back straight will improve your sound.
    Tips from our Readers
    
    The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
    - Start with shorter practicing sessions (about 10-15 minutes), then gradually increase your practice time over days and weeks once embouchure develops.
    - When transitioning between notes, move your fingers simultaneously rather than individually to minimize squeaking from uncovered holes.
    - Position your mouth so your lips lightly touch the recorder without pressure to avoid potential damage from biting.
    - Seek out a professional teacher periodically to check form and technique. In-person guidance prevents bad habits.
    - Have your instrument serviced yearly for cleaning and adjustment to maintain sound quality and playability.
    - Choose quality recorders made of wood rather than plastic. More durable materials produce better tone.
    Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Please provide your name and last initial Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
    Advertisement
    Before playing the reorder after eating brush your teeth and use mouthwash so you don't get food particles in the instrument. Also, never spit into the recorder.
    
    Do not bite the recorder. Don't use your teeth to hold the instrument. The recorder will not last for long if you do this, and it will result in damage to the mouthpiece which could affect the sound.
    Don't smoke before playing as the smell, taste, and discoloration can affect your recorder. Advertisement Things You'll Need
    You Might Also Like
    How to Play Clarinet: Techniques & Tips for Beginners
    Play the Flute Play a Harmonica
    Read Music
    Write a Song
    Play Hot Cross Buns on the Recorder
    
    The Best Way to Clean and Disinfect Your Harmonica
    
    Play "Mary Had a Little Lamb" on the Recorder A Beginner's Guide to Bending Notes on a Harmonica
    Make Pan Pipes
    Play Bagpipes
    Play the Didgeridoo
    Hold a Harmonica
    Play the Oboe Advertisement References
    1. ↑https://www.dkfindout.com/us/music-art-and-literature/musical-instruments/recorder/
    2. ↑https://ourpastimes.com/how-to-play-the-recorder-12112354.html
    3. ↑https://www.yamaha.com/en/musical_instrument_guide/recorder/play/
    4. ↑http://www.squeakysrecorderplayhouse.com/recordermaster.htm
    5. ↑https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_7K7GK3vV0
    6. ↑https://www.arta-recorder.org
    7. ↑https://www.arta-recorder.org
    8. ↑https://h2g2.com/edited_entry/A506387
    9. ↑https://h2g2.com/edited_entry/A506387
    1. ↑https://www.arta-recorder.org
    2. ↑https://www.arta-recorder.org
    3. ↑http://www.prescottworkshop.com/care.html
    4. Wikipedia
    About This Article
    
    wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 156 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 1,239,245 times.
    168 votes - 85% Co-authors: 156 Updated: September 7, 2024 Views: 1,239,245 Categories: Woodwind Instruments
    To play a recorder, gently hold the mouthpiece between your lips without letting your teeth touch it, and balance the recorder with your fingers. Your left hand should be on top, and the back side with one hole should face you. Then, practice blowing very gently into the recorder using your diaphragm and breathing through your belly, so you get pleasant, consistent sound. Start and stop every sound by putting your tongue on the roof of your mouth as if you were saying the word “to.” That will make the beginning and end of each note clearer. To learn more, like how to clean and take care of your recorder, keep reading the article!
    Did this summary help you? Yes No
    - Print
    - Send fan mail to authors
    Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,239,245 times.
    Did this article help you?
    Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.
    About This Article
    Co-authors: 156 Updated: September 7, 2024 Views: 1,239,245 85% of readers found this article helpful. 168 votes - 85% Click a star to add your vote % of people told us that this article helped them.
    Quizzes
    Do I Have a Dirty Mind Quiz Am I a Good Kisser Quiz Rizz Game: Test Your Rizz What's Your Red Flag Quiz Am I Smart Quiz How Insecure Am I Quiz
    You Might Also Like
    
    How to Play Clarinet: Techniques & Tips for Beginners