WOODWIND INSTRUMENTS
There are two main types of Woodwind instruments: flutes and reed instruments. The difference is in the way sound is produced. All Woodwinds produce sound by splitting an exhaled air stream on a sharp edge. A woodwind may be made of other material, not just wood.
RECORDER
The Recorder is suitable for students from aged five, up to and including adults. It provides a simple and low- cost introduction to playing more complicated woodwind instruments such as the Clarinet, Flute and Saxophone. Beginners start with the descant Recorder, with the treble Recorder introduced as the student becomes more proficient. Advanced Recorder players also learn the tenor, treble, bass and sopranino Recorders.
All Recorder students with basic skills are encouraged to participate in an ensemble. This greatly extends and accelerates the learning process, as well as providing an enjoyable social interaction with other woodwind players.
If you would like to view the Curriculum Guidelines for the Recorder, please download the below file!
FIFE
The Fife is a wind instrument that has many similarities with the Flute, from fingering, to mouth position (embouchure), to the way the student blows into it (transverse – across the mouthpiece rather than into it, as for a Recorder). The Fife is smaller than a Flute and often made of plastic. This makes it lighter, more durable and more affordable.
It is more suitable for younger players (ages 5-6) who often struggle to be able to hold and reach all areas of the flute. Fife tuition is recommended as a first step for students who want to see whether the Flute is the right instrument for them.
FLUTE
The Flute is suitable for those aged from seven. It is blown transverse to produce a sound. Younger students who struggle to physically manage the Flute may be advised to start on the Fife and transition to the Flute later, and may also require a Flute with a curved mouthpiece section. During a year of study, students are exposed to a wide repertoire of music, fostering musical knowledge and skill. Students are also encouraged to participate in the Flute ensemble, Wind Band or Sinfonia Orchestra to expand their musical skills and experience.
We offer a Flute ensemble, comprised of instruments within the Flute family, such as the alto Flute and the Piccolo. A wide range of pieces is used, from Tchaikovsky to Disney. The ensemble is suitable for students who have gained some experience in the instrument; the tutor will determine a student’s readiness to join.
CLARINET
The Clarinet is suitable for those aged eight and above. A favourite instrument of Mozart, who wrote some of his finest music for it, the Clarinet has an expressive tone and a large range. It is fairly easy to learn, and is a versatile instrument, played in orchestras, symphonic bands and jazz bands.
Having a good understanding of the Recorder is a helpful stepping stone to the Clarinet
SAXOPHONE
The Saxophone is suitable for those from age ten. There are four types of Saxophone: soprano, alto, tenor and baritone. Alto and tenor are the most common. The Saxophone is best known for its use in jazz, but can also be used to play classical music. Saxophones are played in symphonic, brass and jazz bands, as well as being in common use for playing pop music.
Having a good understanding of the Recorder helps in learning the Saxophone. Playing the Clarinet makes for an easy transition to the Saxophone, as the two instruments share similar techniques and fingerings.
OBOE
Oboes are a family of double reed woodwind instruments. The most common oboe plays in the treble or soprano range. Sound is produced by blowing into the reed at a sufficient air pressure, causing it to vibrate with the air column.
BASSOON
Bassoons are double reed instruments like the oboe. They typically play music written in the bass and tenor clefs.
