Scales, Arpeggios, and Exercises for the Recorder

Rating:
Summary: Essential for recorder players of all levels.
Review: The Doningtons wrote this book to help players of recorders to develop and hone to maturity the following essential skills: fingering, breath control, and their coordination.

The exercises are divided into two sections. One section utilizes the soprano and tenor recorders, and the second part is written for the sopranino, alto, and bass recorders. Additionally, the exercises progress from the easy to the very difficult.

This book does not contain just scales and arpeggios. The authors also provide suggestions for fingering and breath control.

For example, the authors wrote on page 26: In changing from a' to d'', keep a firm hold with the second finger of the left hand and release the thumb and first finger simultaneously(supporting the instrument with the right hand). Relax the breath pressure as you go down to the low d'.

In conclusion, Doningtons' book is an excellent addition to the library of players of the recorder. Before I play other compositions for the recorder, I do preparation exercises from this book.