It is most interesting to know that nowadays the recorder has more admirers than ever before. Especially the treble recorder is most suited to be played in the home circle. There exists a lot of music for this particular instrument already, mainly of the period from Bach to Mozart. The works of the great masters during the above mentioned period, such as Bach, Handel, Telemann, Mattheson, etc., require a high technical proficiency. The object of this booklet is to familiarize the player with this technical proficiency, by means of special exercises.

This technical volume is addressed to advanced treble recorder players looking for repertoire that is suited for consistent work on the foundations of their instrumental and musical abilities. In accordance with the original literature for the treble recorder, the exercises are mainly tailored to this instrument. Some technical chapters can be practised on both the treble and descant recorder (with transposed fingering). The term 'technical' must not be misunderstood here: ultimately, the exercises aim at artistic expression, emotion, and tonal interpretation.

"Foundations for Superior Performance" is designed to help structure the daily rehearsal and advance the performance level of the ensemble. The primary goal is to offer a framework of exercises and routine drills that will facilitate the mastery of essential playing fundamentals. Different skill levels have been integrated into this book to meet the needs of the inexperienced player, and, at the same time, challenge the most advanced.

To play the flute with a clear and convincing sound depends on the understanding of the physical concepts required to make the instrument sound without using undue force and applying just the right amount of physical help where needed. Edmund Raas has explored and taught these fine-points for over 60 years. Born in Switzerland, he has been influenced by the teachings of Emil Niosi (pupil of the great Georges Barrre), Hugo Haldemann, Jean-Pierre Rampal and Aurle Nicolet. Besides teaching, he had the opportunity to play solo concerti and act in many chamber music groups including Renaissance and Baroque music on period instruments. From 1977 to 2005 he also acted as first flutist in the Municipal Symphony Orchestra of So Paulo, Brazil. Since his retirement from this orchestra he is pursuing a career as composer.

This book teaches everything you need to know to get started playing the recorder. Beginning with how to hold the instrument and make a sound, through reading music and basic technique, you'll be guided all the way to articulation, dynamics, and composing. With pieces in styles ranging from ethnic folk tunes to Renaissance dances and classical symphonic melodies, this book is a fun method for learning to play this very accessible and enjoyable instrument.