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

PythagoraSwitch Opening ThemeKurihara Masami

Masaki Kurihara: “PythagoraSwitch Opening Theme” La Strada_All Members Masaki KURIHARA “Pythagora Switch Opening Theme” | YWS

This song is known for its light, catchy melody.

Since the show first aired in October 2002, it has been beloved by many children as the opening theme of NHK’s popular program “PythagoraSwitch.” Created by Masaki Kurihara, the piece blends playfulness and learning—perfect for a children’s educational show.

Its rhythmic, friendly tune has an addictive quality that sticks with you after just one listen.

Once you can play the basic melody line, try adding the distinctive ornamentations to bring it closer to the original.

My Neighbor TotoroHisaishi Joe

Soprano Recorder | “My Neighbor Totoro” with Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music

Composed by Joe Hisaishi with lyrics by Hayao Miyazaki, this theme song is perfect for playing on the recorder.

It’s a gentle waltz in 3/4 time, and the simple main melody doesn’t span a wide range, making it easy to play.

There are relatively few flats and sharps as well.

Above all, since it’s a familiar tune, you’ll quickly get used to the fingerings.

Performed with the recorder’s uniquely rustic, warm tone, this piece—which depicts the heartfelt connection between mysterious forest creatures and children—conveys the film’s gentle world even more vividly.

It’s also great for harmonizing with someone else!

A Cruel Angel’s ThesisTakahashi Yoko

A Cruel Angel’s Thesis - Yoko Takahashi “Neon Genesis Evangelion” Played on Recorder - With Sheet Music

Yoko Takahashi’s song, released in October 1995 as the opening theme for the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, captivates with its grand symphonic rock sound and powerful vocals.

Centered on themes of self-actualization and defiance of fate, the lyrics portray hope for the future and personal growth, brilliantly reflecting Evangelion’s worldview.

Beloved by anime fans young and old, this piece enchants a wide audience.

When performing it on the recorder, aim for a delicate tone while keeping the chorus’s intensity in mind.

Darth Vader’s ThemeJohn Williams

Darth Vader’s Theme [Recorder] Star Wars • The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme) with Do-Re-Mi sheet music

A march written for the film Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back that symbolizes the Galactic Empire and Darth Vader.

Its powerful brass and low strings drive a weighty march that brilliantly conveys the villain’s menace in sound.

Premiered by the Boston Pops Orchestra in concert ahead of the film’s 1980 release, it was later included on The Empire Strikes Back (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) and won a Grammy Award.

It has continued to be used throughout the series and is well known from sports broadcasts and commercials.

The simple motif in G minor and striking rhythm make it easy to play on the recorder, and it’s irresistible for movie fans.

Why not practice it, learn to play it, and recreate those thrilling scenes?

Theme of Lupin the ThirdŌno Yūji

Lupin the Third Theme [Recorder] with Do-Re-Mi Sheet Music

A classic tune that every anime fan can hum.

Its rhythm, set to a speedy and thrilling development, and its unforgettable, striking melody leave a strong impression even in the vocal version.

Released by Yuji Ohno in October 1977, this masterpiece of the anime song world has been beloved in various arrangements.

Be sure to enjoy its thrilling twists and dynamic sound on the recorder as well.

Playing it in an ensemble or with orchestral accompaniment will give it an even more grandiose feel!

I look up as I walkSakamoto Kyu

I Look Up as I Walk (Recorder) — Kyu Sakamoto, with Do-Re-Mi notation included

Released by Toshiba Records in October 1961, this song by Kyu Sakamoto features a simple melody and a comfortable vocal range, making it perfect for recorder performance.

Its lyrics, which express a positive attitude about looking up at the sky to keep tears from falling, resonate across generations and have been loved not only in Japan but also overseas under the title “Sukiyaki.” In 1963, it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming a historic work that achieved global success while remaining in Japanese.

The song was featured as the “Song of the Month” on the NHK program Yume de Aimashou, helping it gain widespread popularity in households.

The memorable intro that begins with whistling and the gently flowing melody blend beautifully with the recorder’s soft timbre.

The fingerings aren’t very complex, so it should be enjoyable to play.

Lovers’ ConcertoSandy Linzer and Denny Randell

A Lover’s Concerto [Alto Recorder] with Do-Re-Mi-Fa Sheet Music / A Lover’s Concerto

A masterpiece that brilliantly elevates the refined melodies of classical music into pop.

First performed by The Toys, this song became a major hit, reaching No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It has been used in a Mitsubishi Motors commercial and as an insert song in the Fuji TV drama “Fukigen na Gene,” and has been covered by numerous artists, including Hiroko Yakushimaru and Keisuke Kuwata.

Its simple, friendly melody is perfect for the recorder as well.

Give this charming tune—one that naturally makes you want to hum along—a try on your instrument.