As with trumpet lessons, recorder lessons are for anyone who is keen to learn. You will need a recorder, a pencil, some patience, some time, and you will probably soon find you need another recorder, and another, and another!

Many children take up the recorder while they are deciding what instrument (often wind) to move on to. This is a very practical approach, and I really enjoy teaching a child the first foundations of music. However, I always encourage students to continue their recorder playing to an advanced level. It seems a bit of a waste to stop just as they are getting into the most exciting music.

A typical lesson might include familiar songs and new music, duets, and technical work. We might chat about performance practice, invent ornamentation or ponder the utterly fascinating complexity of alternative fingerings. We could mention double- and triple-tonguing, even. We may also talk about practice strategies, pieces to listen to, and – do you know how many sizes of recorder there are?

Some students choose to take graded music exams; some prefer to play for pleasure. Those who are interested prepare for performances and competitions. Some students might choose to join the Society of Recorder Players or another ensemble, while others prefer to play solo.

Lessons are currently available through Newpark Academy of Music in IADT, or Mezzo Music in Terenure.