🎵 Learn to Play Recorder
Lesson 22: Key of D Major
  • Master the D major scale (two sharps: F# and C#)
  • Develop fluency in reading two-sharp key signatures
  • Play Renaissance and folk melodies in D major
  • Understand relative minor relationships (D major/B minor)

Introduction

D major is one of the most important keys for recorder players! With two sharps (F# and C#), it's comfortable for both soprano and alto recorders and features prominently in Baroque repertoire.

D Major Scale

D major has two sharps: F# and C#. The key signature shows these at the beginning of each staff.

Notice how F# and C# create the major scale pattern of whole and half steps.

Pattern: W-W-H-W-W-W-H (W=whole step, H=half step)

Finger Patterns in D Major

Get comfortable with these essential D major fingerings:

The D major chord (D-F#-A) forms the harmonic foundation.

Scale Pattern Exercises

Move up the scale in thirds—great for finger coordination!

A simple tune using common D major patterns.

Reading in D Major

Key Signature Reminder: The two sharps (F# and C#) appear at the start of every staff. This means:

  • Every F is played as F# automatically
  • Every C is played as C# automatically
  • Unless you see a natural sign (♮) which cancels the sharp temporarily

A classic song that works perfectly in D major!

"Oh when the saints, go marching in..."

Understanding Relative Minors

Every major key has a relative minor that shares the same key signature:

  • D major (two sharps) = D-E-F#-G-A-B-C#-D
  • B minor (two sharps) = B-C#-D-E-F#-G-A-B

Notice they use the same notes, just starting from a different note! B minor has a darker, more melancholic sound.

Same sharps as D major, but notice the different mood!

Historical Context

D major was beloved by Baroque composers for recorder music:

  • Handel's recorder sonatas often use D major
  • Telemann wrote numerous D major pieces for recorder
  • It sits comfortably in the recorder's best-sounding range
  • Perfect for mixing high and low register notes

Practice Routine (25 minutes daily)

  1. D major scale (two octaves) - 5 minutes
  2. D major arpeggio and thirds - 5 minutes
  3. Scale pattern exercises - 5 minutes
  4. Songs in D major - 10 minutes
Memorization Tip: The order of sharps is always the same: F#-C#-G#-D#-A#-E#-B#. Learn this sequence and you'll always know which notes are sharp in any key!
Mastery goal: Play the D major scale fluently in two octaves without hesitation. Automatically recognize and play F# and C# when reading music in D major. Be able to play simple melodies in D major by sight-reading.
Next: Lesson 23 - Key of F Major