Pirate or Princess Recorder Set – Review

Open and Play Recorder Packs

Princess and Pirate themed Recorder Packs

You may well think I have a screw loose, but when I was offered the chance to review a child’s recorder I jumped at it. Yes you heard right. I agreed to allow several small boys play a RECORDER – within my earshot!! I love the idea of my children following in my footsteps and learning to play musical instruments at a young age and am prepared to make small sacrifices (my sanity?) in exchange. I am hopeful that at least one of the boys will be better at regular practice than I was, but that’s another story . .

FIRST IMPRESSIONS AND PACKAGING

As Mum of three boys, in predictably stereotypical form I opted for the pirate set. The alternative, a Princess set is pictured below. When our parcel arrived I was pleased to see how attractive it was and impressed with how much was in it.

 These OPEN & PLAY recorder packs include:

• High quality three piece coloured descant recorder
• Recorder cleaning rod and carry bag with drawstring
• Themed fingering chart with handy ‘Starting to Play’ tips
• 60 peel-able themed stickers with which to decorate the recorder and music
• Easy to understand ‘Starting to Play…’ tutor book and CD to begin playing straight away

My first impression was that it was too good for a ‘token’ gift and that it would make a lovely present for a young child. In fact, I decided to hide it away for a few days and then give it to Zu who’s 4th birthday was only a few days away.

CONSTRUCTION/DURABILITY

The recorder is attractive and (in the right hands) produces the sound you would expect it to. It feels strong and I can see no obvious weak spots. It’s a real recorder, not just a toy.

COST & PLAY VALUE

When Zu’s Grandmother arrived on his birthday, he took her off to look at his presents whilst I was preparing food in the kitchen. I returned just 5 minutes later to discover that the two of them had formed a duet with Zu chirping away on recorder and Grandma on drums! He had easily worked out how to play a note and maintain a steady beat. It was great to see how happy this traditional instrument was making him.

Comparing it to a similar recorder and separate music book which I bought a couple of years ago, I would say that, at £9.99, this is a good competitive price for the set. You can find out about purchasing them here.

VERDICT

The set comes with a small music booklet and accompanying CD which introduce the child to 2 notes, the stave, fingering and basic rhythms. Their simplicity is quite appropriate to my four year old’s absolute beginners stage. It probably wouldn’t be challenging enough for a much older learner or one who already had a basic grasp of the instrument.

The sets are sold as “suitable from 4 years” and I would be happy to give this set to a young child. I think it would make an ideal Christmas or birthday present. My 4 year old son was definitely impressed!