Easy recorder songs for beginners
Know B, A, and G? You already know enough to play a real tune!
B-A-G songs
Three notes. Two first songs.
- BThumb + hole 1
- AThumb + holes 1–2
- GThumb + holes 1–3
The easiest place to begin.
B, A, and G share one left-hand shape: add one finger as you move down.
Uses B · A · G
Hot Cross Buns
Your first three-note recorder song. It uses only B, A, and G, with a short pattern that repeats.
Uses B · A · G
Mary Had a Little Lamb
The classic first recorder song, in an easy version that uses only B, A, and G.
Add C · D · E
More easy recorder songs
- CThumb + hole 2
- DHole 2
- EHalf thumb + holes 1–5
Three new notes after B-A-G.
High C and D both use the left middle finger: keep the thumb hole covered for C, then lift the thumb for D.
For high E, pinch the thumb hole slightly open and cover front holes 1–5.
Uses D · C · B · A · G
Ode to Joy
Beethoven's famous melody moves step by step, so it is a great first song after B, A, and G. It adds C and D.
Uses D · C · B · A · G
Jingle Bells
The holiday favorite, with the famous chorus. It stays mostly on B and adds C and D.
Uses E · D · C · B · A · G
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
A gentle lullaby that climbs up to high E, your first note with a pinched thumb hole. Save it for when G to D feel easy.