Lesson 4. The note G and the first melody on three notes

One more finger — and we have three notes. That is already enough to play our first melody!

The note G: we cover all the holes of the left hand. The thumb at the back, and the index, middle and ring fingers in front.

The right hand is resting for now: it supports the recorder from below, but does not cover any holes.

Lower notes like even softer breathing. If G squeals, blow very, very gently.

And now the melody: B, A, G. B, A, G. As if we are going down a ladder!

🎤 Exercise: The melody “Little Ladder”

Play in order: B, A, G — two times. Don't rush, hold each note until the bar fills up.

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Press “Start” and allow access to the microphone

🎛️ Notes not being heard well? Adjust it for your recorder

Fingering for the note G

For the note G, all the holes of the left hand are covered: the back one (with the thumb) and the first, second and third in front (with the index, middle and ring fingers). The right hand does not cover any holes.

The first melody on the recorder

Three notes — B, A and G — are the basis of many children's songs. The simplest exercise is the “ladder”: B → A → G, going down one finger at a time. Then you can play it backwards and make up your own melodies.

Tips for practice:

play slowly — speed will come by itself;
say “tu” before each note and take a calm breath after each phrase;
if you slip, don't stop — just continue from the next note.

Why low notes squeal

The lower the note, the softer you need to blow. A strong stream of air makes the recorder jump to the upper overtone — and you get a squeak. If G does not sound, check two things: whether all the holes of the left hand are covered tightly, and whether your breath is too strong.

Questions and answers

How long a day should you practice the recorder?

For children 10–15 minutes every day is enough. Regularity matters more than length.