|
|
|
 |
Instrument: Recorder |
 |
 Why have recorders remained so popular in North America and Europe after more than six centuries? Partly because they are portable and relatively easy to build, and probably because they are extremely accessible - you can to create 'music' simply by blowing through the blowhole, or windway, whether you are a beginning student or accomplished virtuoso. Used in introductory music classes throughout North America, the recorder has also been featured by professional musicians who, since the 1890s, have been interested in the revival of late Renaissance and Baroque music.
Recorders have been a part of European musical history since at least the 13th century. They are the forerunners of the contemporary transverse (orchestral) flute which became increasingly fashionable during the 18th century. Their name possibly comes from the Latin word "recordari" (to be mindful or to recollect). In the Netherlands, this instrument is called the "blokfluit", in Italy, "flauto dolce". Like other duct flutes, recorders |
|
have a block (often made from wood), immediately below the blowhole which directs the flow of air. Usually, there are seven finger hole, and one thumb hole; the end or foot-joint typically has a slight flare.
Since 1450, instrument makers have been manufacturing families of recorders, ranging from from soprano to great bass, the smallest producing a higher range, the largest producing the lowest sounds. These early instruments were used primarily in ensembles with other indoor, soft-voiced instruments (such as the lute) or in recorder consorts. In the mid 17th century, the recorder was restructured as a solo instrument, more suitable for chamber music performance.
Baroque composers who featured the recorder include Jean-Baptiste Lully, Marc-Antoine Charpentier, Henry Purcell, Johann Sebastian Bach, George Friedrich Handel. More contemporary works include Paul Hindemith's "Trio", Henk Bading's "Sonata", Benjamin Britten's children's opera, "Noye's Fludde" and Makoto Shinohara's "Fragmente".
|
|
|
|
