Soprano recorders are plastic versions of song flutes. The recorder is a wind instrument from the early 1800s. One blew into the top of a hollowed tube and used different fingered patterns on the holes down the front to make different notes. Song flutes are held more like a clarinet than a flute.
Song flutes are frequently introduced to children in elementary school music programs. They may be able to learn basic notes, but the results are not always pleasing. By blowing into song flutes too hard or too softly, it is extremely easy to play notes flat or sharp, especially with the inexpensive models played children.
This can also be done with more expensive wooden recorders, but the cheap construction of the plastic ones makes them sound shrill. The success of children’s song flute lessons is determined how much they are willing to practice and how well the teacher communicates the importance of breath control. When children get their own song flutes, they have more opportunities to practice.
Song flutes and recorders are available in a variety of sizes. The majority of children learn to play soprano song flutes. Larger recorders with alto, tenor, and bass sounds can produce deep sounds that are impressive. The sopranino, for example, reaches notes that are similar in height to those of a piccolo. The song flute was largely ignored in the nineteenth century in favor of newer wind instruments, but many famous composers have written duets, trios, and quartets for the recorder.
The song flute received a lot of music from Renaissance composers who were experimenting with the concept of multiple harmonies. Heinreic Issac and William Byrd are two of the most important Renaissance recorder composers. Later composers such as J.S. Bach and Vivaldi would write several pieces for various recorder sizes.
If a child is truly interested in learning to play the song flute, it can be a very enjoyable instrument to learn. There are numerous books available to assist the child in learning at his or her own pace. If two children are interested in learning to play the alto and soprano recorders, look for books that teach fingering and tunes for both instruments. Your children will be able to learn duets from the start.
When your children demonstrate musical ability with song flutes, you might want to consider investing in slightly more expensive wooden recorders. Wooden recorders for students are among the most affordable musical instruments available. For less than $50, you can often find a used wooden or wooden with plastic tipped recorder (USD). When played properly, a slightly higher quality song flute than those designed for students will produce a pleasant sounding tune.