Customer Reviews

The Recorder From Zero, Vol. 2

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As in volume 1, Charles Fischer has compiled beautiful music selected not only for inspirational content, but for step-by-step challenges designed for technical growth. This is one of those books which will inspire as the player learns! As important eartraining for players of Early Music, Greek modes (ancient "scales" passed down via the Medieval church) are introduced, and how to construct them intervallically. Ensuing pieces are identified by mode, to further assist eartraining. Unmeasured duets provide the framework for each player to practice rhythmic independence, and to really feel the flow of phrases. Other duets are measured, and all of them artistically deep. Literature varies from haunting Troubadour melodies to Renaissance Christmas carols (selections that are refreshingly new to America, while known in Germany and other parts of Europe; arranged by Charles Fischer for two recorders), to the plaintively beautiful rounds of Henry Purcell, to the snakily percussive Tourdion and Rotta, to many other wonderful pieces! A wide selection of solos and duets gives opportunity a-plenty for solo or ensemble playing. Only a performer of the recorder, such as Charles Fischer, could come up with this unique and gorgeous selection of music !
--Drina Brooke, author, recorder instructor/performer

The author has over ten years experience teaching recorder to students of all ages. I read through all the exercises in this book with another player. The upper line is meant to be played by the student, with the lower line played by the teacher or a more advanced player. The book consists of graded units of increasing difficulty.

The exercises use actual Medieval and Renaissance music, as well as English country dances and folk music, with a few original pieces written by Mr. Fischer.

So often, exercises used in method books are repetitive and boring, making them a chore to work through. The music chosen in this book is quite appealing, with a lot of variety. I think this method book would work well for players of all ages, since the music is fun to play, and is carefully chosen to demonstrate a particular point, such as modes, rhythms, syncopation, combination tones, etc.

Mr. Fischer is to be commended for producing a refreshing method book, with an easily readable format and a well-chosen variety of music that demonstrates valuable lessons for the student.

I have both books - my daughter is the student. The wealth of excellent exercises and non-boring duet material made volume 2 a no-brainer for us. As as said in my volume 1 review: these are the best method books I own.