North Bellmore School District

February 5, 2026

Park Avenue Musicians Mastering the Recorder

The instrumental journey is just beginning for third graders at Park Avenue Elementary School, as they are learning to play the recorder.

The woodwind musical instrument is played by blowing air into a mouthpiece and covering finger holes to change pitch. Recorders are often used in schools because they’re lightweight and a great way to learn the basics of melody, rhythm and breath control. In North Bellmore, students beginning playing the recorder in third grade general music classes, and are able to join the band or orchestra in fourth grade.

Music teacher Carol Ng has been teaching students finger positions and note reading. Students begin each class singing “I don’t know the notes,” a song that actually helps them the lines and spaces of a music staff.

As they progress, third graders learn to play several simple songs including “Hot Cross Buns,” “Merrily We Roll Along” and “Frere Jacques.” Students also can practice at home, as Ms. Ng has a YouTube channel where she shares recorder-playing video. At the end of the year, students perform for their parents at a recorder concert.

Children sit on a carpet, holding recorders in a music class. Students playing the recorder. Three children play recorders, focused on their instruments. A teacher leads a music class, gesturing to students seated on the floor. Children sit on the floor, playing recorders in a classroom setting. A young boy plays a recorder, focused on the instrument. Two young boys smile at the camera, holding instruments. Children in a classroom play recorders, focused on their music.