Recorder Lessons with Annemarie Klein
- Laura Vida, Feature Writer
- Dec 31, 2020
- 3 min read
Annemarie is a recorder specialist, who combines performance with a busy teaching practice. She enjoys working with children of all levels, both individually and in groups. And she is often invited to lead recorder workshops and courses across the UK.
What makes the recorder a good starting instrument?
· It’s not difficult to produce a sound on the recorder, which is motivating for a beginner.
· Improving the initial sound requires critical listening, which trains the ear.
· The descant recorder has a similar range to a young voice. This means a child will learn to pitch sounds in their head before playing them.
· A descant recorder is light and well adapted to small fingers.
· Playing the recorder encourages good breathing and deportment.
· A plastic recorder is easy to look after, robust and affordable.
What general benefits are there to playing?
· Music enables self-expression, which enhances well-being.
· Your child will develop a strong sense of rhythm and learn to read music.
· Aural skills will be developed.
· Learning music strengthens muscle memory.
When is a good age to start learning the recorder?
At 7, after a child has had some exposure to music.
Why is the recorder a particularly versatile instrument?
Recorders have been around since the Middle Ages. This means there is a huge repertoire of original and adapted music. I don’t believe in a ‘one size fits all’ approach – I like to introduce pupils to all genres of music (classical, folk, jazz etc.) so that each pupil will develop their own taste.
Recorders comes in many sizes/pitches. This gives a more advanced player plenty of scope for solo and ensemble work.
Do you provide performance opportunities?
I organise an annual concert so that pupils have the opportunity to perform. Performing is such a formative experience: aside from learning to manage nerves, you develop a deeper understanding of the music. Apart from sharing in the enjoyment of playing to each other and their parents, I also organise them into ensembles (duets, trios, quartets etc.) with other pupils of all ages.
For more information:
Contact form: here
Parent testimonials:
“Annemarie is an engaging, supportive and knowledgeable teacher.”
“My daughter said to me today that her goal is to play all the recorders that you can, to be as good a player as you!”
“Annemarie encourages her students to be self-aware and to understand the reasons behind what they are aiming to achieve, preparing them well for their music-making, not just today, but in the future.”
FAQs
Do you offer virtual lessons?
Yes. But usually lessons take place in my music room in EH6. This means I can accompany children on keyboard, harpsichord, or on one of my recorders.
I also provide children with tailored recordings to aid practice. These include examples of rhythms, melody and the accompaniment. Since not all parents have a knowledge of music, this enables independent practice.
How long are your lessons?
Between 30 mins and 1 hour, depending on age.
Can my child attend a taster session?
Yes! I can provide a recorder for this.
Do you teach theory?
Yes, theory is fundamental so I incorporate it into every lesson.
Do your pupils take music exams?
Many choose to, but this is entirely optional.
Will you provide my child with a recorder?
No. But I’m keen to advise parents on the most suitable models. It’s important to get the right one to avoid intonation/fingering problems.
Can I accompany my child to their lesson?
Of course. Parents are welcome to wait in the sitting room next door.
For more information:
