There has been a significant increase in the use of the recorder in United States in the past few years. Versatile and simple, this woodwind instrument that many link to elementary music learning has won over many m usicians and listeners. Its history dates back to middle-age Europe when it was just another musical instrument but now, it forms the backbone of American music culture thereby proving that recorders always have a place in our hearts.
Previously, the recorder was a musical instrument brought to America by Europeans for use in folk and classical music. It was mostly put in folk and classical music but its usage in conjunction with other instruments has increased over time, making it widely acceptable as a musical tool. Being a simple instrument, many school kids can play it and maintain their interest in musicals.
Consort Instruments: The Renaissance Recorders
A Renaissance consort is a musical group that usually consists of recorders spanning from the soprano to the contrabass. They were typically made in one or two pieces, always tuned using pure thirds and fifths so that no discord could be heard among multiple melodies of different instruments.
Today, many players perform Renaissance pieces with modern Baroque-style instruments; however, only those who have had an opportunity to listen or play such pieces through them know how exciting it could be.
Notable Performances:
- The Royal Wind Music – Pierre Phalèse/Bransle: This ensemble captures the lively spirit of Renaissance dance music.
- The Royal Wind Music – Innocenzio Alberti/Pavin of Alberti & Gallyard: Their performance showcases the elegant and stately dance forms of the period.
- Heinrich Isaac – Der Hund – Tre Fontane: A mesmerizing performance that highlights the intricate polyphony of Renaissance music.
Solo Recorder Performances
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- Dan Laurin | Jacob van Eyck – „Engels Nachtegaeltje” | Po prostu… Filharmonia!: A beautiful rendition of a classic piece by one of the greatest recorder composers.
- Antonio Vivaldi: Recorder Concerto in C Major, RV 443: Performed by Maurice Steger and Cappella Gabetta, this concerto demonstrates the recorder’s agility and bright sound.
- Martin Bernstein performs Jean-Baptiste de Bousset: “Pourquoy doux rossignol”: A touching and lyrical performance that showcases the recorder’s melodic capabilities.
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Contemporary Recorder Music
Also making waves in the world of modern music is the recorder. Here are some performances from which you can see its contemporary attraction:
- Sören Sieg – Yitsho, Yintoni ulonwabo (2015): Performed by the Flanders Recorder Quartet, this piece brings African-inspired rhythms and melodies to the recorder.
- Clea Galhano performs Ave Maria by Astor Piazzolla: A hauntingly beautiful performance of Piazzolla’s famous piece.
- Take Five, performed by the Formosa Recorder Quartet: This jazzy rendition of the classic Dave Brubeck tune demonstrates the recorder’s versatility.
The American Recorder Society (ARS)
The American Recorder Society (ARS) serves as the cornerstone of the recorder community for enthusiastic people. Since its inception, this non-profit organization has been providing a friendly atmosphere for recorder lovers.
Mission and Vision: ARS attempts at spreading the gospel of recorder music. The primary purpose will always remain; they strive to reach out to every player interested in playing the instrument by offering varieties of social, educational, and professional oppor
How ARS Supports Your Recorder Adventure
Membership Benefits:
- Quarterly American Recorder Magazine: Stay informed with the latest news and articles.
- Find a Recorder Teacher: Access a network of qualified teachers.
- Join a Local Chapter, Consort, or Orchestra: Connect with other recorder players in your area.
- Business Member Links: Find music, instruments, and more from trusted sources.
- Learning Resources: Access educational materials on the ARS website.
- ARS NOVA Archive: Enjoy monthly e-magazines on topics of interest.
- Downloadable Music Libraries: Free music downloads for members.
- Discounted Membership: First-year membership is half-price.
Top Business Members for Quality Instruments:
- Honeysuckle Music
- Kunath Group
- Lazar’s Early Music
- Moeck Musikinstrumente + Verlag GmbH
- Prescott Workshop
- Von Huene Workshop and The Early Music Shop of New England
Online Music Resources:
- ARS Downloadable Music Libraries
- IMSLP Sharing the World’s Public Domain Music
- CPDL Choral Public Domain Library
Join the American Recorder Society
Joining the American Recorder Society is a nice way to make your musical journey better. You will find the society’s collection of learning materials very useful as it is a place where members get encouraged while they enjoy playing the recorder. If you have any suggestion or message for this article, please email or comment below. Thank you.
