The recorder at school: The opinion of the music teacher

Abstract

The recorder has been a common instrument in Primary schools for several decades. In this article, through an ad hoc online questionnaire answered by 605 teachers, we have analyzed its use in schools, its advantages and disadvantages, and its influence on proposals for improvement made by teachers. The results show that recorder is perceived as an instrument that is easy to learn and use, for which most teachers feel qualified to teach in spite of their having little specific training and the fact that it has some limitations that are mostly centered on the idiosyncrasy of the instrument itself. In addition, teachers recognize the motivational potential of the instrument if it is adapted to the contextual aspects, ages, and levels. In addition, they stressed that it is a valuable precursor when it comes to learning other types of instruments. They also highlighted aspects of auditory training, technique, performance, or improvisation as well as self-control, practice, teamwork, commitment, and flexibility.