♩♫ Mrs. Morgans Music ♫♩: Recorder Karate

At TRS students in third grade learn recorder! This is our first experience playing a wind instrument and owning and taking care of our own instrument. We use a leveled program called Recorder Karate. Students earn belts for every song they master. We play many games to help develop our tone and skill and also work in leveled groups to practice. Here is some more information...

When should my student bring his/her recorder to school?

Everyday! Students should keep their recorder in their backpack and carry it to and from school everyday. It is important that they do not forget their recorder or they miss out on the lesson. Students who forget their recorder have to play "air recorder" and typically fall behind. Please make sure your student puts their recorder in their backpack after practicing. Thanks!

Should my students be practicing at home?

Yes! Students who practice at home excel much more quickly and develop a lovely sounding tone. You should aim to practice recorder with your nightly homework, about 10-20 focused minutes. Students practice best when they are in a quiet room and follow the practice steps located in their recorder music packet given to them at the beginning of the year.

How do I wash my recorder?

I recommend using the cleaning rod provided in the case your recorder came with. Use a piece of fabric or sturdy paper towel to clean out the inside after playing. Don't use tissues! Warm soapy water also works well. I don't recommend using the dishwasher! :(

Help! My child is having trouble playing songs and has not earned any belts!

Don't worry! We all excel at different paces. Check in with your student and ask them some questions:
Does Mrs. Morgan know you are having trouble and have you asked her for help?
Where do you sit in music and can you see the board?
Are you following the teachers directions and focusing on the lesson?

Feel free to call me or email me if you are concerned about your child's progress.