I'm now 73 and have no prior experience of music whatsoever. I think it's both fun and at times frustrating, trying something completely different. My family think I'm totally nuts both because of my age and the fact I've chosen the recorder. (4 of them) However I've always said it's only being nuts that keeps me sane. Thanks for your videos and I wish I was as quick as you are at learning to play recorders. Keep up the good work.
I am 36. I just begun trying to learn recorder. I ve always wanted to learn an instrument. I felt bad cause there is so much prejudice against adults learning. I feel very motivated . i apreatiate your videos. Thanks and greetings from México
Hi Myra, well I think you’ve chosen a brilliant instrument! Choosing to learn something new at any age has got to be better than never starting… Best of luck with your learning and I hope you enjoy it… happy practicing!
I used to play the recorder as a kid and the clarinet and was quite good but like a lot of things in life it fell by the wayside. Now I’m going to learn the alto recorder. I’m 49. Wish me luck! 😉
I am 67 and just started the recorder. I have been at it about 3 weeks and have managed Men of Harlech, from an ancient text by Freda Dinn. Greetings fom Canada.
I've been playing musical instruments my whole life and love learning new ones, and I genuinely find it extremely impressive that you were able to play anything on day 3! No matter what you think it sounds like, that's honestly extremely cool🙌🔥
Your experiences very much parallel my own. Think you got a funny look at the music shop? Try it at 61 grey beard and all. Clerk: Is this a gift for your grandchildren? Me: No, it's for me. I've always wanted to learn music. Clerk: Shows me guitar Me: Shows clerk stiff arthritic fingers. Clerk:...ukulele? Me: thinks about showing clerk *one* particular arthritic finger... So I started out with a soprano Yamaha which turned out to be too small and cramped. I moved up to an alto but the lack of a low "C" made playing the popular music I wanted to play difficult. So now I've settled happily on a Yamaha tenor. I try to practice at least an hour every day splitting between scales and songs. I'm not as far along as you are but I don't compare myself to other people but to how I was yesterday and the day before. I've caught the sea shanty\jig bug and currently working on The Irish Washerwomen. So much fun! Breath control for the high register is giving me fits though UGH!
Hahaha the ‘one particular arthritic finger’ has greatly amused me! Congratulations on sticking to your guns and battling through to get a recorder 🙃 I’ve been playing my tenor a lot this week, I love it, but the soprano sure does feel small after it. I can’t get beyond top ‘a’ on the tenor, you’re not alone with breath control issues... keep on and happy playing!
Trumpet player in primary school, Sousaphone in secondary school.- then dropped through adulthood - seriously considering taking up something simple @ 73
You are just lovely! I have caught the bug. I started out getting a set of inexpensive soprani for my family, but now that my oldest is actually showing an interest in working through a book and learning actual fingering, I feel it's time to step my game up! Yoir progress and picking up from scratch is all fantastic!
I had the same approach as you for 4 years on classical guitar. You have to stay motivated. work regularly and always play with pleasure . Progress comes by itself.
I'm 56 and looking at starting a recorder I've never played a instrument ever.im guessing all the Muppets who slag you off are people who can't play .well done it impressed me and inspired me to do all you are doing keep it up .
Same story here in France. Luckily, I had a music teacher in the 70th (I was five) who was a great recorder and ancient instrument player. So I was sure that the instrument seller had no idea about baroque recorder
I’ve been following Sarah Jeffery for ages, she’s absolutely brilliant. I’ve just retired and bought a recorder to learn how to play. Your lovely video update fills me so full of hope that I too will be able to turn the random squeaks into something some melodic. Good luck with your journey and hope the grades go well. 😊
Am going to start to learn the recorder again after 46 years I think it will help me as I am getting older, I used to love it all those years ago, I think it will be like starting from scratch but hopefully will come back to me. Keep up the good work your doing fine xjx❤
I'm in that situation too, I played when my son was being taught in primary school, 30 years ago. I'm literally back at square one, wishing I'd kept it up!
Last time I was playing a recorder I think dinosaurs were still walking up and down high streets 😅 I've always played instruments but I recently went back to playing the recorder because although people want to laugh and mock it's one of very few instruments that relies on the person interacting with the instrument in the most natural way if that makes sense. So I'm talking about the recorder in it's most basic form, no keys or electronics or gizmos although those do help but everything is controlled by the recorder player breathing cover holes fully/partially etc, if you think Alto or Tenor for example you might struggle with stretching fingers even for me with large hands took a while. I have sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor and I couldn't play the first two because they're so tiny in my hands and to think I used to play it a lot when I was at school. Anyway... Big High Five Girl! How many people would have been brave enough to post their 6 months from starting from scratch to where you are now is absolutely amazing, you also mentioned Doan Daphne piece you are working by Jacob Van Eyck have I written it correctly 😂 I would never have remembered this if you and Sarah Jeffrey and others haven't played it. Your right there's a really good community of people who are like us beginners regardless of age who will keep playing and learning. One day we'll all be playing this piece together online live... 🙂 Keep up the good work.
What a fantastic progress! I started at age 49 and after a year ..I am better, but ... Now I feel sorry that I didn't record my initial practice 🙂 I had a good laugh when you showed a bunch of your recorders saying "it is addictive". My wife couldn't understand my collection. Greetings from London!
Your Ode To Joy was awesome for only 3 days learning!! I’m getting an Alto recorder in a couple days hope I sound as good as you do in 6 months time. Excellent video. 👍🏻💕
Yay! I’m an adult learner too! You’re so positive and the video is so encouraging! Thanks a lot, keep up, I’ll be waiting for more. From Russia with 🎶🪈❤
I am impressed by your progress your way of making and editing a video, Your capability to come straight to the point without making endless monologues and I do enjoy your sense of humour. And yes it is people like you, adult learners like myself I am looking for. Listening to your Wellerman and your Praetorius interpretation gives me hope. I think I want a tenor and an alto as well. It is true, the best feedback is recording myself. Keep up your good work and enjoy!
Thanks for taking the time to write such lovely comments, Kristine, I appreciate it! ☺️ I’d say definitely go for a tenor/ and/ or alto- it’s nice to freshen things up sometimes by switching between instruments! Happy playing!
I look forward to following your journey. I started the recorder (never having played one as a child) as an adult too. I've played other instruments, but they were string instruments - so, never played a wind instrument (other than dabbling with the tin whistle). I can read music, but not complicated rhythms. The other challenge - my husband is very sweet, BUT, he can't stand to listen to me practice the recorder. Sometimes I try to play underneath a blanket! (NOTE: I only play the soprano as I have a hand injury and the larger recorders are not something I can play.) I actually found a mute for my recorders and that helps (a Canadian company made it). Keep posting! You're encouraged me to start playing again!
absolutely lovely! And yes, very addictive! I love Sarah Jeffery as well, her enthusiasm is infectious! I'm learning the various recorders because I'm also interested in early medieval music, and flutes and whistles are just about the earliest instruments found, so great fun! And the recorder is so versatile because it is chromatic, you can play ALL the notes! Working out the sharps and flats once you start reading notation is fun! My husband started the 5 string banjo in April 2021 without any prior musical knowledge or ability, and like you, had to learn not just the notes, but also the rhythms.... TAB doesn't show timing very well, only the position of frets on strings, he's come a long way! Keep it going! 😍
I think we had the recorder for about one day in school I don’t remember it after that maybe they changed there minds 😢 I’m going to try what you are doing sounds entertaining
Actually, I think your rhythm is very good. I had the other problem when I started recorder a couple of months ago, I have played a few woodwind instruments and found the fingering of the alto recorder to be non-intuitive. I think the descant or tenor would have been better since the fingering is more similar to the flute, saxophone and upper register of the clarinet but I do really like the alto, not to screechy and not too large for my fingers. Like you, I want more recorders but first I am going to get a really nice alto. What I would like more than anything is to find some else I could play duets with but as a seriously mature (53) beginner, this is proving difficult. Your doing great, especially for someone who hasn't played another instrument before. The recorder has a huge repertoire and is seriously maligned for such an amazing instrument.
I’m getting my first alto recorder in a few days (just ordered it) and am very excited. I’m 57 and have been trying to find “my” instrument for a couple years, went from flute to piano to guitar to violin and now to recorder…I’m hoping recorder is “IT!!” I adore my flute but never took it very serious, piano is fun but not portable 😂, guitar is hard for my small hands, as is violin (I bought a full size, think I need a 1/2 or 3/4). I remember liking recorder when we played when I was 8 or nine in school…so maybe.
I feel identified with you. I started with the saxophone and the keyboard with some teachers, but only for a short time, then, I started by myself, a few years later I signed up with a teacher to remove errors during a course, then I left it due to lack of time for work. Nowadays I have managed to learn many instruments based on the videos that other people put on TH-cam, but as long as they are at the level I need because it really is frustrating when someone teaches you at a higher level. By selling his videos, I realize that this is the way and that he may not be doing so badly since I am recording things and I see the progress over time. Currently I have many different instruments at home such as: Chinese Xun, DIZI, Bawu, Ocarina, Fife, Clarinet, Transverse Flute, Trumpet, Saxophone, Xiao, Quenas, Whistle, Flugelhorn, Keyboard, Japanese Hakuachi, Lyra, Tongue, ... some of them. I made myself following tutorials on TH-cam and the truth is, it has helped me a lot. I don't have a sufficient level in any of them, but I love discovering instruments from all over the world. I hope you like the videos on my channel, which I only upload to compare and share my experience over time. From time to time I visit a school to show them these instruments and the children are very surprised, they always ask the same thing: How have you learned so many instruments? I always answer them: and why not? It is a rewarding experience. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Greetings from Asturias- Spain.
Hi Fernando, thanks for getting in touch, sounds like we’re definitely on the same path- but I would never be able to learn that many instruments! Though it would probably be fun to try! I like attempting to make instruments occasionally too, I really do believe it helps with playing them as you begin to understand what they need to work. I’ll check out your videos- Happy practicing! 🙂
@@ClaythorpeMusic Thank you. I currently have about 23 instruments and I want to continue learning. My 14-year-old and 7-year-old daughters already see it as normal and have learned to play one. I really want you to enjoy music, if you want to study further I will support you as much as I can.
@@ClaythorpeMusic Yes, they are already able to appreciate other styles of music and value the musical richness of other countries. Since they are babies, I have tried to make them learn to value other styles and enjoy music as something fun and that it helps them to remove stress and especially mobile phones.
I'll be thirty-six in July. The recorder, guitar, ukulele, a couple of little keyboards and an assortment of percussion instruments where the first instruments I played when I was little, back in the early-'90s. I've played the violin since '96 (oh, how I love that instrument!), and although I still have my cheap plastic soprano Baroque recorder (Yamaha's YRS-24B, a model they still make!), I've only played it once or twice since I switched to the violin. On a whim, I dug it out again yesterday afternoon to see if I could produce a half-decent sound: nope. I'm still trying, though, with a little help from a video by, yep, Sarah Jeffery. I'm not looking to really learn the instrument, just produce a workable sound and experiment with it a bit.
I am currently 3d-printing my future recorder. Haven't played any minute yet, but tested my parts and most of them work, the windpipe got messed up so I have to reprint. I've also looked at saxophones but didn't find any good enough project for making music with 3d printed instruments, so I guess the recorder is one of the best 3d printing projects for music. Apart from this, I play a little guitar, I've been playing on and off since university and I've recently started to do 1h of practice per day (it's been a week so far and it really shows, I can do much more that I was able before). I have some songs I like and I want to record myself doing duets between guitar and recorder and also play the recorder at campfires. Plus, it's light and easy to carry on planes and trains and other transportation in my holiday trips or when I am hiking. That's why I am looking into recorders. How many hours do you practice per day?
Well played I think. Basically the sound of a soprano. Also you have more husband than I do so congrats to you. Supposedly new wood recorders need playing in to get accustomed to being played.
one of the main things that has helped me is getting into genres that are flute/recorder friendly, like bossa Nova or salsa. As much as i love my 3 buck soprano yamaha, i understand that it has a texture that can be tricky to blend with some musical genres. I don't have many musician friends, but if you do, i would recommend yo to start playing with them to understand dynamics, articulations, and specially, the need for knowing how to improvise and chat musically with other people. The recorder has an infamous reputation, butits a lovely instrument, and it shouldn't be seen that way forever.
You’ve made a lot of progress in six months! I bought my recorder two years ago, but have only actually played it a few months during that time. 😂 Good luck with the Trinity books!
Great progress! I have started in 2022, but not completely from scratch. I already knew how to read notes and still had my childhood recorder (germen fingering) from first grade.
Thanks for sharing. I just started at the age 57 three days ago and came across your video. Love to hear from you in the next 6 months I laughed at how you went to the music store I can relate so much. Lol.
I started learning the recorder age 25. Played for a few months, then sort of wandered off. I'm now 53, and am getting back into music, though so far, I've only played the kazoo. I've got pretty good. 😉
It's all very familiar to me. I wasn't allowed to play an instrument at school which has led to an intermittent but seemingly lifelong desire to play an instrument but sadly I never keep at it unlike you have........only later for it to re-emerge. I then go buy and try something else. So far I've got a flute, electric guitar, acoustic guitars, ukuleles and more recently 2 recorders; a soprano and an alto. I can't play any of them. One day, one day! Or perhaps I'm just a collector of instruments?
I used to play Irish whistle and flute, but gave up music for 30+ years. Decided yo learn Recorder, went into a musical instrument store to pick up a yamaha tenor that had been delivered there for me, the guy behind the counter invited me into the backroom to watch me put it together because he had never seen a tenor, he wanted me to play it as well and I had to disappoint him :-). Been back there to pick up an alto since, total respect.
Loved the music store skit! Several years ago I called a store about taking cello lessons and was asked how old my child was. Recorders are awesome for their price and portability. Everyone should play one. I just subscribed to your channel. I may be inspired by you to post some videos of my own recorder playing.
Haha the recorder is definitely more portable than the cello, that’s for sure! Do put some videos up if you get chance, it’s great to see other players 🙂
You are doing great! Keep it up. You can really hear the improvement over time and I appreciate you sharing your progress with us. I do hope you will keep us updated. :)
Clearly you are ull of unreleased potential as you moved in time to Ode to Joy. Wonderful. Thank you for being you and for sharing. Please keep up the sterling work.
you're awesome! I am a LOT older and going through the same thing now. 2 months into it. May 2022. FFFUUUUUNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your video really encourages me.
What a great endeavor. I became an adult learner last summer, started with the tin whistle but will explore other wind instruments until I find “mine”, if such a thing exists. I know that I like soft and warm sounds so I would love to try the NAF and the Bansuri. Want to find a recorder too.
A great work! A nice video for beginners to see how your progress worked and how it could be for them (me :D) I had an illusion I could master this instrument for a month or so as many musicians (probably they were professionals or just magicians) did. At least I was inspired that recorder is the easiest instrument to start with. Jeeez... such a mistake... such a big mistake :D Thank you for the video and real life examples. They are motivating me and others (me for sure) and give a realistic view on how learning can be difficult and how much efforts and time it can take.
Thanks for your videos, so funnies! I had an epiphany with music(also with a recorder) few months ago! Found you looking opinions about yamaha YRF-21 cross beginners flute
I started with clarinet but because I have partial mouth paralysis, I had a trouble with embouchure. My clarinet teacher suggested an alto recorder, which is similar fingering and easier on the mouth, and I've been playing that for about 6-8 months. I STILL suck at it, but I'm better than I was. Those high pinched notes are a bear to play, LOL!
Lol, I know what you mean, I live in hope that the high notes will continue getting easier with time! My flute teacher is a pro clarinetist, I think she’d like me to give it a whirl but I don’t fancy the effort that comes with reeds! Happy playing!
What a great an honest video, superb :) So cool to see your progress! I just bought a recorder after seeing Video's of Sarah, she is indeed a great PR for the recorder. And also downloaded a sheet of Daphne haha :D I hope I have just as much progress as you, but at least have the same amount of joy with it.
Hi, I’m an adult beginner and have bought “play recorder” book as well . How did you structure your learning and practice ? How long did you keep on one lesson before moving to the next ? What level does finishing the book take you you too?
You're so cute and fun, i really love your videos and i'm very impressed how you learned a lot of things in a very short time of study and alone, congratulations for the determination and dedication :)
I am 14 y old and I play the recorder❤ I've been practicing since May and I can already play a lot of stuff! Not to brag or anything but I can play the naruto theme (the rising fighting spirit, the harry potter theme at 2x speed🎉 through alot of practice of course) I do it as a hobby and my teacher is "youtube tutorials😂" Edit: although I started playing at 11 y old and stopped playing and only recently I've been having fun playing it❤
I am trying to learn both at once, which is a bit confusing, occasionally! But not too bad. I used a method book published by Hal Leonard to start with, called something like “Learn to Play The Recorder Today”, but then I moved on to Sarah Watts’ Red Hot Recorder series. They look a bit childish from the covers, but actually really good! They’re both soprano method books, I haven’t used one for alto.
@@ClaythorpeMusic Not at all. Now, I'm a lot more experienced musically, but learning alto (low note is F) and soprano (low note is C) at the same time is beneficial. I have a sopranino, a soprano, an alto and a tenor (F,C,F,C, respectively). Get the Dutchman Rooda's 95 Dexterity Exercises..., written for both varieties. Standard recorder text. The Dutch have been masters of the instrument for centuries.
@@JESL_TheOnlyOne I think learning both at once improves my concentration! I’m going to try to get hold of the book you recommended, I really need to work on dexterity, thanks for the tip! 🙂
@@mattfangrecorderstudio8325 exactly! I think the basics on recorder are simple to pick up, but after that, mastering it is as difficult as any other instrument.
@@ClaythorpeMusic Yes, if i look at the first page of Mendelson Violin concerto its very difficult judging by the notes that looks like a galaxy. I play Van eyck english nightingale on the recorder. At first i know its very simple.but its very hard to turn the notes into music. Recorder is amazing actually.
@@mattfangrecorderstudio8325 there is some really beautiful recorder repertoire. Wish I could play ‘Nightingale’- too difficult for me… maybe one day 🙄
Very inspiring video. I got a recorder last year but then found that it made a lot of noise in the apartment and I got really shy about making any sounds with it. Also, most of the repertoire that I have heard doesn't interest me all that much. Watching this video has made me reconsider giving it another shot. I want to learn to play a little music at home with something simple. Any tips on not making a lot of noise would be very welcome.
Hi, thanks for the kind words! I get shy about playing too if I think my neighbours can hear. Sometimes I practice for a long time and I do feel guilty about the noise! You’re not alone. I know some people try folding a small piece of paper and putting it in the window of the recorder. If you play around to get it in the right place it will deaden most of the sound, so you can still give your fingers the practice! Also, maybe try to find a recorder with a really airy sound, as then the noise won’t travel through walls so well. I have a couple of cheap plastic Thomann brand recorders that are very airy (they still sound pleasant, but not too piercing!) Also I’d say to try playing whatever you want on the recorder, if the more usual repertoire isn’t for you! I’ve heard all sorts work well on the recorder… happy playing 🙂
I'm now 73 and have no prior experience of music whatsoever. I think it's both fun and at times frustrating, trying something completely different. My family think I'm totally nuts both because of my age and the fact I've chosen the recorder. (4 of them) However I've always said it's only being nuts that keeps me sane. Thanks for your videos and I wish I was as quick as you are at learning to play recorders. Keep up the good work.
I am 36. I just begun trying to learn recorder. I ve always wanted to learn an instrument. I felt bad cause there is so much prejudice against adults learning. I feel very motivated . i apreatiate your videos. Thanks and greetings from México
Hi Myra, well I think you’ve chosen a brilliant instrument! Choosing to learn something new at any age has got to be better than never starting… Best of luck with your learning and I hope you enjoy it… happy practicing!
You've essentially learned a second language in 6 months and are now learning the grammar of that language. Fantastic job!!!!!!
I used to play the recorder as a kid and the clarinet and was quite good but like a lot of things in life it fell by the wayside. Now I’m going to learn the alto recorder. I’m 49. Wish me luck! 😉
I find it quite commendable. No one laughing, it's inspiring, keep it up it up.
Respect and administration. You are a beacon for people who want to learn and your honesty is so encouraging. Keep going. Keep us posted. Niall
I am 67 and just started the recorder. I have been at it about 3 weeks and have managed Men of Harlech, from an ancient text by Freda Dinn. Greetings fom Canada.
I am 73 and am on day2. Rubbish but this gives me a bit of hope!
Letsgooo ❤🎉🎉
I've been playing musical instruments my whole life and love learning new ones, and I genuinely find it extremely impressive that you were able to play anything on day 3! No matter what you think it sounds like, that's honestly extremely cool🙌🔥
You played a simple version of "Ode toJoy" in 3 days? That's fantastic. You are a natural!
Your experiences very much parallel my own. Think you got a funny look at the music shop? Try it at 61 grey beard and all.
Clerk: Is this a gift for your grandchildren?
Me: No, it's for me. I've always wanted to learn music.
Clerk: Shows me guitar
Me: Shows clerk stiff arthritic fingers.
Clerk:...ukulele?
Me: thinks about showing clerk *one* particular arthritic finger...
So I started out with a soprano Yamaha which turned out to be too small and cramped. I moved up to an alto but the lack of a low "C" made playing the popular music I wanted to play difficult. So now I've settled happily on a Yamaha tenor. I try to practice at least an hour every day splitting between scales and songs.
I'm not as far along as you are but I don't compare myself to other people but to how I was yesterday and the day before.
I've caught the sea shanty\jig bug and currently working on The Irish Washerwomen. So much fun! Breath control for the high register is giving me fits though UGH!
Hahaha the ‘one particular arthritic finger’ has greatly amused me! Congratulations on sticking to your guns and battling through to get a recorder 🙃 I’ve been playing my tenor a lot this week, I love it, but the soprano sure does feel small after it. I can’t get beyond top ‘a’ on the tenor, you’re not alone with breath control issues... keep on and happy playing!
Just enjoying playing and you will learn fast.
Trumpet player in primary school, Sousaphone in secondary school.- then dropped through adulthood - seriously considering taking up something simple @ 73
@@1334motorman I played clarinet in 4th and 5th grade but gave it up when I discovered baseball and girls.
TRIED TO PICK UP TRUMPET AGAIN BUT MY THROAT MUSCLES WERE SHOT & SO WAY OUT OF WACK
@@kelanth462
You are just lovely! I have caught the bug. I started out getting a set of inexpensive soprani for my family, but now that my oldest is actually showing an interest in working through a book and learning actual fingering, I feel it's time to step my game up! Yoir progress and picking up from scratch is all fantastic!
I had the same approach as you for 4 years on classical guitar.
You have to stay motivated. work regularly and always play with pleasure .
Progress comes by itself.
I agree, enjoying practicing is a very important thing!
I'm 56 and looking at starting a recorder I've never played a instrument ever.im guessing all the Muppets who slag you off are people who can't play .well done it impressed me and inspired me to do all you are doing keep it up .
Really very good progress. Everyone's got to start somewhere. Just start, and keep going regularly.
a really open and sincere video thanks for posting.
Even at 4 months your music genuinely became pleasant to listen to. You've given me hope to learn too :)
Same story here in France. Luckily, I had a music teacher in the 70th (I was five) who was a great recorder and ancient instrument player. So I was sure that the instrument seller had no idea about baroque recorder
I’ve been following Sarah Jeffery for ages, she’s absolutely brilliant. I’ve just retired and bought a recorder to learn how to play. Your lovely video update fills me so full of hope that I too will be able to turn the random squeaks into something some melodic. Good luck with your journey and hope the grades go well. 😊
Am going to start to learn the recorder again after 46 years I think it will help me as I am getting older, I used to love it all those years ago, I think it will be like starting from scratch but hopefully will come back to me. Keep up the good work your doing fine xjx❤
I'm in that situation too, I played when my son was being taught in primary school, 30 years ago. I'm literally back at square one, wishing I'd kept it up!
Ode to Joy on Day 3 is nothing to be ashamed of! Well done
Last time I was playing a recorder I think dinosaurs were still walking up and down high streets 😅 I've always played instruments but I recently went back to playing the recorder because although people want to laugh and mock it's one of very few instruments that relies on the person interacting with the instrument in the most natural way if that makes sense.
So I'm talking about the recorder in it's most basic form, no keys or electronics or gizmos although those do help but everything is controlled by the recorder player breathing cover holes fully/partially etc, if you think Alto or Tenor for example you might struggle with stretching fingers even for me with large hands took a while. I have sopranino, soprano, alto, tenor and I couldn't play the first two because they're so tiny in my hands and to think I used to play it a lot when I was at school.
Anyway...
Big High Five Girl!
How many people would have been brave enough to post their 6 months from starting from scratch to where you are now is absolutely amazing, you also mentioned Doan Daphne piece you are working by Jacob Van Eyck have I written it correctly 😂 I would never have remembered this if you and Sarah Jeffrey and others haven't played it. Your right there's a really good community of people who are like us beginners regardless of age who will keep playing and learning.
One day we'll all be playing this piece together online live... 🙂
Keep up the good work.
You are an inspiration. I'm now just two weeks in. It's great to know that in six months you can get to such a good level as you are. Thanks
Happy playing- enjoy it! 🎶
Thank you for your videos they are very
uplifting and encourage others to take
up this lovely instrument
What a fantastic progress! I started at age 49 and after a year ..I am better, but ... Now I feel sorry that I didn't record my initial practice 🙂
I had a good laugh when you showed a bunch of your recorders saying "it is addictive". My wife couldn't understand my collection.
Greetings from London!
😮🎉😮 very inspiring !!
I’m not laughing at you. I’m an adult recorder learner, too. Keep on keeping on.🎼
Thanks for the encouragement, right back at you! 😊
Me too! 😊
Your Ode To Joy was awesome for only 3 days learning!! I’m getting an Alto recorder in a couple days hope I sound as good as you do in 6 months time. Excellent video. 👍🏻💕
like you, I decided to pick up a instrument as an adult, without any prior experience. I found this video very motivating. Thanks for posting.
Yay! I’m an adult learner too! You’re so positive and the video is so encouraging! Thanks a lot, keep up, I’ll be waiting for more. From Russia with 🎶🪈❤
I am impressed by your
progress
your way of making and editing a video,
Your capability to come straight to the point without making endless monologues and I do enjoy your sense of humour.
And yes it is people like you, adult learners like myself I am looking for. Listening to your Wellerman and your Praetorius interpretation gives me hope. I think I want a tenor and an alto as well. It is true, the best feedback is recording myself. Keep up your good work and enjoy!
Thanks for taking the time to write such lovely comments, Kristine, I appreciate it! ☺️ I’d say definitely go for a tenor/ and/ or alto- it’s nice to freshen things up sometimes by switching between instruments! Happy playing!
Very enjoyable and very encouraging! Thank you for allowing us to follow you on your recorder journey!
v
Ouch! I’m 68 and trying out the recorder too, by my standards you’ve tons more ability than I have.
I look forward to following your journey. I started the recorder (never having played one as a child) as an adult too. I've played other instruments, but they were string instruments - so, never played a wind instrument (other than dabbling with the tin whistle). I can read music, but not complicated rhythms. The other challenge - my husband is very sweet, BUT, he can't stand to listen to me practice the recorder. Sometimes I try to play underneath a blanket! (NOTE: I only play the soprano as I have a hand injury and the larger recorders are not something I can play.) I actually found a mute for my recorders and that helps (a Canadian company made it). Keep posting! You're encouraged me to start playing again!
This was wonderful! Very encouraging!! Thanks!!!
Wow you have made years of progress in only a few months. Brilliant 👏👏👏.
Keep playing ❤love the recorder ❤❤
Yes, it's addictive!!!
absolutely lovely! And yes, very addictive! I love Sarah Jeffery as well, her enthusiasm is infectious! I'm learning the various recorders because I'm also interested in early medieval music, and flutes and whistles are just about the earliest instruments found, so great fun! And the recorder is so versatile because it is chromatic, you can play ALL the notes! Working out the sharps and flats once you start reading notation is fun! My husband started the 5 string banjo in April 2021 without any prior musical knowledge or ability, and like you, had to learn not just the notes, but also the rhythms.... TAB doesn't show timing very well, only the position of frets on strings, he's come a long way! Keep it going! 😍
I think we had the recorder for about one day in school I don’t remember it after that maybe they changed there minds 😢 I’m going to try what you are doing sounds entertaining
Actually, I think your rhythm is very good. I had the other problem when I started recorder a couple of months ago, I have played a few woodwind instruments and found the fingering of the alto recorder to be non-intuitive. I think the descant or tenor would have been better since the fingering is more similar to the flute, saxophone and upper register of the clarinet but I do really like the alto, not to screechy and not too large for my fingers. Like you, I want more recorders but first I am going to get a really nice alto. What I would like more than anything is to find some else I could play duets with but as a seriously mature (53) beginner, this is proving difficult. Your doing great, especially for someone who hasn't played another instrument before. The recorder has a huge repertoire and is seriously maligned for such an amazing instrument.
I’m getting my first alto recorder in a few days (just ordered it) and am very excited. I’m 57 and have been trying to find “my” instrument for a couple years, went from flute to piano to guitar to violin and now to recorder…I’m hoping recorder is “IT!!” I adore my flute but never took it very serious, piano is fun but not portable 😂, guitar is hard for my small hands, as is violin (I bought a full size, think I need a 1/2 or 3/4). I remember liking recorder when we played when I was 8 or nine in school…so maybe.
I feel identified with you. I started with the saxophone and the keyboard with some teachers, but only for a short time, then, I started by myself, a few years later I signed up with a teacher to remove errors during a course, then I left it due to lack of time for work. Nowadays I have managed to learn many instruments based on the videos that other people put on TH-cam, but as long as they are at the level I need because it really is frustrating when someone teaches you at a higher level. By selling his videos, I realize that this is the way and that he may not be doing so badly since I am recording things and I see the progress over time. Currently I have many different instruments at home such as: Chinese Xun, DIZI, Bawu, Ocarina, Fife, Clarinet, Transverse Flute, Trumpet, Saxophone, Xiao, Quenas, Whistle, Flugelhorn, Keyboard, Japanese Hakuachi, Lyra, Tongue, ... some of them. I made myself following tutorials on TH-cam and the truth is, it has helped me a lot. I don't have a sufficient level in any of them, but I love discovering instruments from all over the world. I hope you like the videos on my channel, which I only upload to compare and share my experience over time. From time to time I visit a school to show them these instruments and the children are very surprised, they always ask the same thing: How have you learned so many instruments? I always answer them: and why not? It is a rewarding experience. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Greetings from Asturias- Spain.
Hi Fernando, thanks for getting in touch, sounds like we’re definitely on the same path- but I would never be able to learn that many instruments! Though it would probably be fun to try! I like attempting to make instruments occasionally too, I really do believe it helps with playing them as you begin to understand what they need to work. I’ll check out your videos- Happy practicing! 🙂
@@ClaythorpeMusic Thank you. I currently have about 23 instruments and I want to continue learning. My 14-year-old and 7-year-old daughters already see it as normal and have learned to play one. I really want you to enjoy music, if you want to study further I will support you as much as I can.
@@MusicMoonandflute really kind, thanks! Sounds like your daughters are going to have a lot of musical fun!
@@ClaythorpeMusic Yes, they are already able to appreciate other styles of music and value the musical richness of other countries. Since they are babies, I have tried to make them learn to value other styles and enjoy music as something fun and that it helps them to remove stress and especially mobile phones.
@@MusicMoonandflute sounds brilliant, lucky them!
I'll be thirty-six in July. The recorder, guitar, ukulele, a couple of little keyboards and an assortment of percussion instruments where the first instruments I played when I was little, back in the early-'90s. I've played the violin since '96 (oh, how I love that instrument!), and although I still have my cheap plastic soprano Baroque recorder (Yamaha's YRS-24B, a model they still make!), I've only played it once or twice since I switched to the violin. On a whim, I dug it out again yesterday afternoon to see if I could produce a half-decent sound: nope. I'm still trying, though, with a little help from a video by, yep, Sarah Jeffery. I'm not looking to really learn the instrument, just produce a workable sound and experiment with it a bit.
I am currently 3d-printing my future recorder. Haven't played any minute yet, but tested my parts and most of them work, the windpipe got messed up so I have to reprint. I've also looked at saxophones but didn't find any good enough project for making music with 3d printed instruments, so I guess the recorder is one of the best 3d printing projects for music. Apart from this, I play a little guitar, I've been playing on and off since university and I've recently started to do 1h of practice per day (it's been a week so far and it really shows, I can do much more that I was able before). I have some songs I like and I want to record myself doing duets between guitar and recorder and also play the recorder at campfires. Plus, it's light and easy to carry on planes and trains and other transportation in my holiday trips or when I am hiking. That's why I am looking into recorders. How many hours do you practice per day?
Well played I think. Basically the sound of a soprano. Also you have more husband than I do so congrats to you. Supposedly new wood recorders need playing in to get accustomed to being played.
Loved your video! I used to play as a child, quit, and now I've picked it up again. I have to relearn everything but it's been so much fun.
one of the main things that has helped me is getting into genres that are flute/recorder friendly, like bossa Nova or salsa. As much as i love my 3 buck soprano yamaha, i understand that it has a texture that can be tricky to blend with some musical genres. I don't have many musician friends, but if you do, i would recommend yo to start playing with them to understand dynamics, articulations, and specially, the need for knowing how to improvise and chat musically with other people. The recorder has an infamous reputation, butits a lovely instrument, and it shouldn't be seen that way forever.
The recorder has a vast repertoire and is absolutely geautiful
Wishing the best of luck and definitely follow sarah jeffrey.🎵❤️🎶
Your progress is amazing! I like even your first records, not to mention your current level. Thanks for your story!
Thank you!
You’ve made a lot of progress in six months! I bought my recorder two years ago, but have only actually played it a few months during that time. 😂 Good luck with the Trinity books!
Thanks, I need all the luck I can get! Don’t neglect that poor recorder 😉
This is an AMAZING video. Thanks for posting this: you’re an inspiration! ☺️
Haha, I don’t know about that, but thanks anyway! 😆
i just got a recorder for my b day, haven't played in 15 years, i feel silly but it's so satisfying to make music!
Very impressive for six months sweet girl please continue and best luck!😘🙏🙏🙏
Great progress! I have started in 2022, but not completely from scratch. I already knew how to read notes and still had my childhood recorder (germen fingering) from first grade.
Your graphics are killer funny. Great video!!!
Thanks for sharing. I just started at the age 57 three days ago and came across your video. Love to hear from you in the next 6 months
I laughed at how you went to the music store I can relate so much. Lol.
Well Done!!!
I started learning the recorder age 25. Played for a few months, then sort of wandered off. I'm now 53, and am getting back into music, though so far, I've only played the kazoo. I've got pretty good. 😉
Really enjoyed your video - thank you for sharing
Thank you!
It's all very familiar to me. I wasn't allowed to play an instrument at school which has led to an intermittent but seemingly lifelong desire to play an instrument but sadly I never keep at it unlike you have........only later for it to re-emerge. I then go buy and try something else. So far I've got a flute, electric guitar, acoustic guitars, ukuleles and more recently 2 recorders; a soprano and an alto. I can't play any of them. One day, one day! Or perhaps I'm just a collector of instruments?
I used to play Irish whistle and flute, but gave up music for 30+ years. Decided yo learn Recorder, went into a musical instrument store to pick up a yamaha tenor that had been delivered there for me, the guy behind the counter invited me into the backroom to watch me put it together because he had never seen a tenor, he wanted me to play it as well and I had to disappoint him :-). Been back there to pick up an alto since, total respect.
Now that sounds like a good music shop! I think the staff at my local are steadily getting used to my ‘unusual’ instrument requests…
Happy playing!
Wow! So cool! Thank you so much for sharing your experience😍
What a cute video. TY!
Quite good !!! Excellent progress !
I love this. Thanks for this amazing video ❤
Loved the music store skit! Several years ago I called a store about taking cello lessons and was asked how old my child was. Recorders are awesome for their price and portability. Everyone should play one. I just subscribed to your channel. I may be inspired by you to post some videos of my own recorder playing.
Haha the recorder is definitely more portable than the cello, that’s for sure! Do put some videos up if you get chance, it’s great to see other players 🙂
@@ClaythorpeMusic I just got a Gill wooden tenor today :)
@@BurningtunaDC oh cool! I hadn’t heard of Gill, I’ve just had a read up. Hope you like it!
Damn. Just bought the Yamaha yrs 31 recorder
Great video, very encouraging for anyone wanting to start out. Thank you
Great video. I'm 22. Just picked up the recorder and hoping to do as well as you have
Thanks! Good luck with it, I’m sure you’ll do great!
You are doing great! Keep it up. You can really hear the improvement over time and I appreciate you sharing your progress with us. I do hope you will keep us updated. :)
Clearly you are ull of unreleased potential as you moved in time to Ode to Joy. Wonderful. Thank you for being you and for sharing. Please keep up the sterling work.
Beethoven would be proud of your day 3 :D Sounded good for 3 days.
Good job! Thank you.
Thanks 😊
The recorder is a beautiful instrument that demands practice,practice, practice 😀.
Oh so much practice… good job it’s fun!
you're awesome! I am a LOT older and going through the same thing now. 2 months into it. May 2022. FFFUUUUUNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your video really encourages me.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. Never to late to start something you enjoy!
Haven't seen a video from you in sooo long. Hope you are okay!!!
Keep on keeping on. I'm a beginner too. I have hope of playing in church or in a concert 🙏
I hope you meet your goal- let us know when you do 🙂
What a great endeavor. I became an adult learner last summer, started with the tin whistle but will explore other wind instruments until I find “mine”, if such a thing exists. I know that I like soft and warm sounds so I would love to try the NAF and the Bansuri. Want to find a recorder too.
I’m sure your instrument is out there, have fun finding it! I think NAF is next on my list to try.
A great work! A nice video for beginners to see how your progress worked and how it could be for them (me :D) I had an illusion I could master this instrument for a month or so as many musicians (probably they were professionals or just magicians) did. At least I was inspired that recorder is the easiest instrument to start with. Jeeez... such a mistake... such a big mistake :D
Thank you for the video and real life examples. They are motivating me and others (me for sure) and give a realistic view on how learning can be difficult and how much efforts and time it can take.
Thanks for your videos, so funnies! I had an epiphany with music(also with a recorder) few months ago! Found you looking opinions about yamaha YRF-21 cross beginners flute
Well done. This stigma about recorders is so wrong. I had it on FB but when I said it has a chromatic scale he went away.
I started with clarinet but because I have partial mouth paralysis, I had a trouble with embouchure. My clarinet teacher suggested an alto recorder, which is similar fingering and easier on the mouth, and I've been playing that for about 6-8 months. I STILL suck at it, but I'm better than I was. Those high pinched notes are a bear to play, LOL!
Lol, I know what you mean, I live in hope that the high notes will continue getting easier with time! My flute teacher is a pro clarinetist, I think she’d like me to give it a whirl but I don’t fancy the effort that comes with reeds!
Happy playing!
Thank you.
What a great an honest video, superb :) So cool to see your progress! I just bought a recorder after seeing Video's of Sarah, she is indeed a great PR for the recorder. And also downloaded a sheet of Daphne haha :D I hope I have just as much progress as you, but at least have the same amount of joy with it.
I really do believe that the more you enjoy it, the more you’ll progress. Can’t beat a bit of Daphne… or Sarah!
Hi, I’m an adult beginner and have bought “play recorder” book as well . How did you structure your learning and practice ? How long did you keep on one lesson before moving to the next ? What level does finishing the book take you you too?
i'm very impressed, i've been playing for 40 years and you could give me a run for the money!
Haha, thanks, but I’m sure that’s not true! 🙂
Adult recorder learner here!
Can you make a video on this connection b/w notes?
OMG, 4:50 is the most relatable thing ever XD *looking at my recorder bucket in the corner*
LOL, I love the idea of a bucket full of recorders!
You're so cute and fun, i really love your videos and i'm very impressed how you learned a lot of things in a very short time of study and alone, congratulations for the determination and dedication :)
Naw, thank you! ☺️
Amazing! Did you feel more difficulty because you're learning different kinds of recorder or it made things easier?
sooooooo inspiring!
Thank you!
Very entertaining good humer.
😅 I try my best!
I am 14 y old and I play the recorder❤
I've been practicing since May and I can already play a lot of stuff! Not to brag or anything but I can play the naruto theme (the rising fighting spirit, the harry potter theme at 2x speed🎉 through alot of practice of course) I do it as a hobby and my teacher is "youtube tutorials😂"
Edit: although I started playing at 11 y old and stopped playing and only recently I've been having fun playing it❤
Keep it up every journey starts with one step
Thanks for the encouragement, I’ll try my best! 😊
Great progress! Seems you're teaching yourself both soprano and alto, at the same time? What method book(s) are you using?
I am trying to learn both at once, which is a bit confusing, occasionally! But not too bad. I used a method book published by Hal Leonard to start with, called something like “Learn to Play The Recorder Today”, but then I moved on to Sarah Watts’ Red Hot Recorder series. They look a bit childish from the covers, but actually really good! They’re both soprano method books, I haven’t used one for alto.
@@ClaythorpeMusic You may be trying to do too much at once. I don't know, gee.
@@denkeylee almost certainly 😀
@@ClaythorpeMusic Not at all. Now, I'm a lot more experienced musically, but learning alto (low note is F) and soprano (low note is C) at the same time is beneficial. I have a sopranino, a soprano, an alto and a tenor (F,C,F,C, respectively). Get the Dutchman Rooda's 95 Dexterity Exercises..., written for both varieties. Standard recorder text. The Dutch have been masters of the instrument for centuries.
@@JESL_TheOnlyOne I think learning both at once improves my concentration! I’m going to try to get hold of the book you recommended, I really need to work on dexterity, thanks for the tip! 🙂
You sound pretty damn good 👍 Im having More questions than answers , its not your fault
Haha thanks! Hope you figure out your answers!
You started just about the same time I did. You have gotten much farther than I have! Pretty cool, though.
I’m lucky, I get a lot of practice time! Happy playing 🙂
We have the same situation. I am violinist and currently studying soprano and alto recorders.
You have good balance between a very well respected instrument and a much underrated one, haha!
@@ClaythorpeMusic they are both very difficult instrument.
@@mattfangrecorderstudio8325 exactly! I think the basics on recorder are simple to pick up, but after that, mastering it is as difficult as any other instrument.
@@ClaythorpeMusic Yes, if i look at the first page of Mendelson Violin concerto its very difficult judging by the notes that looks like a galaxy.
I play Van eyck english nightingale on the recorder. At first i know its very simple.but its very hard to turn the notes into music. Recorder is amazing actually.
@@mattfangrecorderstudio8325 there is some really beautiful recorder repertoire. Wish I could play ‘Nightingale’- too difficult for me… maybe one day 🙄
Very inspiring video. I got a recorder last year but then found that it made a lot of noise in the apartment and I got really shy about making any sounds with it. Also, most of the repertoire that I have heard doesn't interest me all that much. Watching this video has made me reconsider giving it another shot. I want to learn to play a little music at home with something simple.
Any tips on not making a lot of noise would be very welcome.
Stop giving a s*** about people and make noise. With confidence you'll produce beautiful tones. Maybe.
Hi, thanks for the kind words! I get shy about playing too if I think my neighbours can hear. Sometimes I practice for a long time and I do feel guilty about the noise! You’re not alone. I know some people try folding a small piece of paper and putting it in the window of the recorder. If you play around to get it in the right place it will deaden most of the sound, so you can still give your fingers the practice! Also, maybe try to find a recorder with a really airy sound, as then the noise won’t travel through walls so well. I have a couple of cheap plastic Thomann brand recorders that are very airy (they still sound pleasant, but not too piercing!) Also I’d say to try playing whatever you want on the recorder, if the more usual repertoire isn’t for you! I’ve heard all sorts work well on the recorder… happy playing 🙂
well done