- Learn note G4 (first three fingers)
- Play simple three-note melodies
- Master "Hot Cross Buns" and "Merrily We Roll Along"
- Develop smooth finger coordination
Introduction
Now that you can play B and A, adding G completes your first three-note group. With these three notes, you can play many famous songs!
Note G4
Fingering for G: Thumb hole plus the first THREE finger holes of your left hand.
Play long tones on G to develop a clear, steady sound.
Note: G is the lowest of your three notes so far. Listen to its deeper sound compared to B and A.
Three Note Patterns
Play down from B to G, nice and slow.
Now climb back up from G to B.
Your First Real Song: Hot Cross Buns
This is THE classic first recorder song. Three notes, simple rhythm, instantly recognizable!
Traditional melody
Lyrics: "Hot cross buns, hot cross buns, one a penny, two a penny, hot cross buns"
Practice tip: Learn it phrase by phrase. Master the first two measures before moving on.
Second Song: Merrily We Roll Along
Another classic three-note song
Challenge: Try to play it from memory after a few practice sessions!
Finger Coordination Tips
- Keep all three fingers curved and close to the recorder
- Lift and place fingers together—don't let them flail about
- Practice "silent fingering" (finger patterns without blowing) to build muscle memory
- Start slow! Speed comes with time
Common Mistakes
- ❌ Fingers too stiff - Keep them relaxed and naturally curved
- ❌ Moving fingers too far from holes - Keep them hovering just above
- ❌ Rushing - Steady rhythm is more important than speed
- ❌ Stopping breath between notes - Keep air flowing smoothly
Practice Routine (20 minutes daily)
- Long tones on G - 3 minutes
- B-A-G and G-A-B patterns - 5 minutes
- Hot Cross Buns - 6 minutes
- Merrily We Roll Along - 6 minutes