I want to play it on the recorder! Carefully selected classic pieces and popular songs recommended

Message of RougeArai Yumi

Rouge’s Message [Recorder] from “Kiki’s Delivery Service” · Yumi Arai · With Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music

This was Yumi Arai’s fifth single, released in February 1975.

Years later, it was chosen as the opening theme for Studio Ghibli’s film Kiki’s Delivery Service, making it a beloved song across generations.

Its bright, bouncy melody is easy to play on the recorder, and the lively tempo makes it fun to perform.

With a retro vibe inspired by 1950s–60s American pop, it pairs perfectly with the recorder’s simple, rustic tone.

It’s also a great choice to play for fans of Ghibli works!

CanonJohann Pachelbel

“Everyone’s Recorder”: Pachelbel’s Canon

A widely beloved masterpiece of Baroque music by Johann Pachelbel.

Its beautiful melody, woven from a repeating chord progression, leaves a deep impression on listeners.

Composed in the late 17th century, this piece is performed in a variety of settings, such as weddings and graduation ceremonies.

When playing it on the recorder, cherish a graceful and gentle atmosphere.

It’s recommended to start practicing at a relaxed tempo and gradually increase the speed.

Savor the full charm of this work and enjoy the overlapping lines of sound.

Return to SorrentoNapori min’yō

Go Back to Sorrento [Recorder Sheet Music] Torna a Surriento

This Neapolitan song, composed in Sorrento, Italy at the end of the 19th century, is a classic in which the beautiful coastline and the bittersweet feelings for a beloved intertwine.

Its gentle triple-meter melody begins softly and, while gradually expanding its range, builds toward a captivating climax.

If you play it on the recorder, it’s best to value the natural flow of the phrases and plan your breath marks carefully to achieve a legato performance.

Since its official publication as sheet music around 1904, it has been sung by world-renowned artists such as Enrico Caruso and Luciano Pavarotti.

As you perform, picture the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy and infuse the music with nostalgia and romance.

Country RoadTaffī Naibāto, Jon Denbā

Country Roads [Recorder] from the movie “Whisper of the Heart” • with Do-Re-Mi sheet music

The ending theme of Studio Ghibli’s heartwarming film “Whisper of the Heart,” which is also performed within the movie.

Its simple, gentle tone makes you want to try playing it yourself.

With just one flat and a relaxed tempo, it’s approachable even for those who feel unsure about the recorder! In the film, the heroine, Shizuku, sings while Seiji accompanies her on the violin.

By the end, many other instruments join in as accompaniment—including the recorder! Just like in the movie, playing together with other instruments in addition to the recorder makes it even more vibrant and fun.

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SAKI

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Grandfather’s ClockHenrī Kurei Wāku

Grandfather’s Clock [Recorder] with Do-Re-Mi (solfège) sheet music included

Although this song is now cherished in Japan as if it were a Japanese tune, it originally began as an American popular song, published in 1876 by Henry Clay Work.

It became the well-known piece it is today after being released with Japanese lyrics on NHK’s TV program “Minna no Uta” in 1962.

Many artists have covered it, and many people will likely remember Ken Hirai’s version in particular.

Its beautiful melody also shines in solo recorder performances, which is one of its appealing points.

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Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)

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Triumphal MarchGiuseppe Verdi

Aida: Triumphal March [Recorder] – Soccer Cheer Song with Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music

This march, which radiates an overwhelming sense of festivity in the opera Aida set in ancient Egypt, is a famous piece where a fanfare-like, glittering melody is repeated during the victory celebration scene.

Its majestic major key and steady four-beat rhythm give it the powerful drive characteristic of a march, and it is often performed by wind bands.

It resounds as a chant in soccer stadiums around the world and continues to be loved today as a symbol of victory and celebration.

When played on the recorder, you need to watch your breath pressure in the high notes, but the melody is simple and easy to remember, so slow practice will do the trick.

Play it at a sports day or school event and it’s sure to get the crowd going!

Over the RainbowHarold Arlen

Over the Rainbow Alto Recorder with Do-Re-Mi Fingerings Educational Art Company Instrumental Music for Junior High School Students

Why not try playing, on the recorder, a song sung by a girl who dreams of a hopeful world beyond the rainbow? Composed by Harold Arlen and known as a featured song in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, this classic captivates with its gentle tempo and profoundly moving, beautiful melody.

The tune begins with a striking octave leap, which, when played on the recorder’s clear tone, enhances its nostalgic atmosphere even more.

Winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Song, it carries a universal message that quietly celebrates the strength to hold onto hope even in difficult times.

It’s a perfect next challenge for those who’ve grown comfortable with fingerings!