TOWAMENCIN- One of the most memorable elementary school experiences was learning how to play the recorder during music class. Between the nostalgic screeching sound of fourth graders playing hot cross buns to the exciting memory of being assigned your own instrument, it’s hard not to love playing the recorder. For those who have been eager to play ever since then, North Penn students are able to sign up for the high school’s new Recorder Ensemble for the 2019-2020 school year.

After years of band students flooding administration’s inbox with emails requesting them to consider adding a recorder ensemble to the list of music courses, band director Mr. Ted Heller was finally able to work out the details to make it happen.

“An overwhelming amount of students wanted to have a recorder ensemble so I worked with administration to make it a new course,” explained Heller. “I think this will be a really good opportunity for students who want to be involved in music but don’t have the experience that most high school musicians do.”

North Penn senior Mason Zeigler was one of many students who have been pushing for a recorder ensemble, and he already has an extensive collection of recorders waiting to be played.

“I don’t think a lot of people realize that recorders can actually be musical and easy to learn, so I’m excited for the new class,” expressed Zeigler.

So for students who have the interest or passion for playing the soprano, alto, tenor, or bass recorder, this ensemble is perfect for you, and there is no previous music experience required.

Unlike other music groups at North Penn, there is no required audition to join the recorder ensemble. Students who are interested in taking up the recorder next year simply have to select the ensemble during course selection. Like any other music course, the class is available as a two-period minor or a four or six-period major, so it will not be hard for students to fit music into their schedule.

“We don’t want to drive students away because they have to audition. We want to combine all students who have varying experience levels in music,” Heller stressed.

With the anticipated success of the recorder ensemble, Heller has plans to open up recorder spots in the wind ensemble and jazz band, and is considering adding a recorder section to the Marching Knights.