Lesson 67: Triple Tonguing

• Triple-tongue evenly: t-k-t k-t-k or t-t-k t-t-k.
• Apply triple tonguing to groups of three in a complete movement.

Keep all three notes equally clear.

Triple tonguing uses t and k sounds to start fast notes in groups of three. Try t-k-t / k-t-k and t-t-k / t-t-k; choose the clearer pattern. Review t / k in Lesson 41.

Without the recorder — speak the syllables

Speak both patterns slowly until even, then try them on one note.

Drill — eighths in threes, C major

Drill — eighths in threes, F major on your alto staff

In 12/8, three eighths per beat: keep the syllable pattern running evenly through every group.

Drill — mixed threes and twos

Use t-k-t on three eighths and t-k on each dotted-eighth pair; either group fills one beat.

Now play these

Telemann: Duet Sonata TWV 40:103 — complete first part

Keep the 12/8 Siciliana’s four compound beats clear.

Handel: Sonata in F major, HWV 369 (complete recorder part)

Handel’s closing Allegro in 12/8: eighths in threes at speed.

When both drills and a chosen passage have even spacing and equally clear starts, move on to Lesson 68, the first of two lessons on Vivaldi's recorder concerti.