Submitted by Tari McKee, Ohio

Idea posted May 8, 2002

Here is my recorder plan. In the past, I have done recorders for the 2nd semester of grade 4, and that's about it. I will continue that - and we do little else in the 2nd semester so the kids can play very well by May. My black belt is America in F. Many make it there.

This year, I bought John Riggio's "A Recorder Christmas," which has now helped me develop my long-term plan. With my fifth graders who did the Recorder Karate in 4th grade, we took the three weeks before Christmas break to learn the songs. We played them all and performed in the hall on the last day before break. It was very well received. So... Each year in 5th grade, we will play Christmas songs on recorders. "A Recorder Christmas" has an excellent mix of easy to advanced pieces. I think I will make it a continuation of Recorder Karate.

In 6th Grade, I don't know yet, I'm waiting for an inspiration.