Outside The CAGE

by M.C. Handel

This piece was written for recorders and percussion and as such includes both a recorder/C instrument part and a percussion part. The recorders play only the notes C, A, G, and low E, as the title suggests. They break into two parts at measure 17 so that you can have more advanced players show off with their low C's. This is optional, of course.

The percussion part includes cowbells, rhythm sticks, tambourines, hand drums, and claps. Use any and all of these or change them to whatever you like. Even if you don't have any percussion instruments, you could at least add the claps! The part is a little challenging to read in a couple of spots, so make sure students are paying attention.

The recording includes a classic rock 'n' roll horn band, as well as rhythm section and strings. At measure 25, there is a call and response between the winds and the students. Instead of playing recorders at this point, students say the spoken lines. The rhythm is also played by all the rhythm instruments.

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.