The Really Easy Recorder Book: Recorder Book

Bonsor resists the trap of making beginner music feel patronizing. These pieces stand on their own musically while respecting the technical ceiling of early players. The piano accompaniments elevate what could be skeletal melodies into satisfying performances, giving students a real sense of ensemble playing from day one.

A collection that feels like genuine music-making from the first page. The mix of familiar classics and original melodies creates a sense of discovery, and the piano parts ensure that even a beginner's simple melodic line feels like part of something larger and more orchestrated.

Young recorder students who have mastered the basics and are ready to play complete pieces with piano support. This book works equally well in private lessons, classroom settings, or as a confidence builder for students preparing to join ensemble work.

• Listen to your piano partner closely during the opening phrase of each piece so you can lock into the tempo and harmonic context before you enter.
• Shape phrases even when you're only playing a handful of notes; dynamic contour transforms a simple melody into something memorable.
• Work through the pieces in order. The progression isn't just about difficulty; each new piece builds on patterns and confidence from the previous one.
• Let the piano accompaniment guide your phrasing and breathing rather than playing mechanically through the barline.

Slot these pieces into spring recitals or casual school performances where you want students to experience playing with accompaniment in a low-pressure setting. They also serve beautifully as parent engagement pieces for classroom demonstrations of student progress.

• Reading extended melodic lines across multiple phrases
• Playing with rhythmic precision alongside a piano part
• Phrasing and dynamic shaping on limited note ranges
• Listening and responding to harmonic accompaniment
• Building confidence in ensemble playing