How to hold the recorder

A comfortable hold leaves your fingers free to move.

Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed. Bring the recorder to your lips at a comfortable downward angle, keeping your head level.

Hand position

Put your left hand on top: its thumb covers the back hole and its first three fingers cover the top three front holes. The right hand goes below, with its thumb supporting the recorder from underneath.

Use this arrangement whether you are left- or right-handed; it matches the fingerings used throughout these lessons.

Finger technique

• Cover each hole with the soft, flat pad of your finger.
• Let the fingers curve naturally; press just enough to make a seal.
• Keep lifted fingers close to their holes so they can return easily.

A quick comfort check

• Can you keep your head level and let your shoulders drop?
• Can your right thumb support the recorder without a tight squeeze?
• Can you lift and replace the left index finger while the recorder stays steady?

Practice exercise

Without blowing, cover the back hole and first front hole with your left thumb and index finger; lift the index finger a little, then replace its pad three times while keeping the recorder steady.

Next: Making your first sound.