9 Tenor Low D

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It should now be clear that while learning recorder is a step by step process, not all steps are equal. In particular, the low notes are not easily tamed. The recorder doesn't have keys (for the most part), like a flute or saxophone, so landing all the fingers to cover the holes "just so" is a skill to be learnt.

Moreover, finding the right breath pressure for low notes can be frustrating. Not enough, the sound is poor, too much overblows the note. Certainly the case with this next note, the low D, shown below:

The fingering is LTh, L1, L2, L3 (the low G), then R1, R2 and R3. In other words, a low E with an extra finger added. Look at the picture, see how the first two right hand fingers (R1, R2) are curled slightly, whereas R3 sits flatter. Make sure that R3 covers both of the small holes.

Now try the low D. Any luck? Maybe yes, more likely no. First check each finger for leaks. A more likely culprit however is too much breath pressure. Try the exercise below. Notice that the D is immediately below the bottom line of the stave.
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The idea here is to play the E (an easier note), then add an extra finger for the D. This may be easier than playing the D straight off. When both the E and D are working, play each note in turn and focus on the sound. The D has a fatter sound, due to additional "overtones". However the D is particularly sensitive to excess breath pressure, it must be just right. As you are finding.

Now try this exercise:
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When moving from G to D, the three right hand fingers must move as one. Note also the tricky E to F# transition from the last lesson.

Previously we introduced the dotted half note (minim), which is 50% longer than the regular half note (minim). Here we apply the same idea to a quarter note (crotchet), where adding a dot also increases the length by 50%. A dotted quarter note (crotchet) is usually followed by a eighth note (quaver), making two beats altogether. It looks and sounds like this:
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Notice the skipping sound? Dotted quarter note (crotchet) plus eighth note (quaver) combinations like those above are very common. Recognise them, add them to your internal musical vocabulary.

Off to the library now. You'll need your low D and dotted quarter notes (crotchets).

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Hush Little Baby
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Shady Grove
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Waltzing Matilda
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The Wren
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Nachtanz
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