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École de musique du Marché
Lesson room at École de musique du Marché, near Jean-Talon metro in Montreal

Recorder Lessons in Montreal

Private 1-on-1 recorder lessons — the perfect first instrument for young children. Classical and early music. Near Jean-Talon metro.

4,200+ students

since 2016

400+ active

currently

25 teachers

academically trained

Italmelodie Heritage

since 2016

Why this instrument?

The Ideal First Instrument for Young Children

The recorder is lightweight, inexpensive, and produces sound easily — making it the perfect entry point for children as young as 5-6. Research confirms that early instrumental instruction builds foundational musical skills and enhances cognitive development.

Rauscher et al., Neurological Research, 1997

Builds a Bridge to Other Wind Instruments

Recorder teaches breath control, finger coordination, and note reading — skills that transfer directly to flute, clarinet, saxophone, and other wind instruments. Many professional musicians started their journey on the recorder.

McPherson & Davidson, Psychology of Music, 2006

Develops Reading and Mathematical Skills

Learning to read music notation on the recorder engages pattern recognition and mathematical thinking. Studies show that instrumental music education in early childhood correlates with stronger reading and math performance.

Hetland, Journal of Aesthetic Education, 2000

What to expect

Fun, structured lessons that introduce young children to music through an instrument they can hold, play, and love from day one.

Format
Private 1-on-1 with a qualified teacher
Duration
30, 45, or 60 minutes
Levels
Complete beginner to advanced (soprano, alto, tenor)
Styles
Classical, early music, Baroque, folk, children's repertoire
Included
Personalized curriculum, music reading, breathing basics, fun repertoire
Pricing
From $30/lesson. $35 lifetime registration. No contract.

What you'll learn

1

Beginner

  • Proper hold and gentle breath control
  • First notes: B, A, G and simple songs
  • Reading basic music notation
  • C major scale and simple melodies
  • Rhythm exercises and musical games
2

Intermediate

  • Full chromatic range on soprano recorder
  • Introduction to alto recorder
  • Baroque and Renaissance repertoire
  • Articulation: tonguing and legato phrasing
  • Two-part playing and duets
3

Advanced

  • Advanced Baroque solo repertoire (Telemann, Vivaldi, Handel)
  • Alto, tenor, and bass recorder technique
  • Ornamentation and historical performance practice
  • Ensemble and consort playing
  • Preparing for transition to concert flute or other winds

Practical info

288 rue Jean-Talon Est, Montreal (Villeray / Petite-Patrie)
Jean-Talon metro (blue and orange lines), 2 min walk
From age 5 (private lessons) · From age 3 (preschool music)
30, 45, or 60 minutes per week
Always prepaid, no minimum or maximum — we suggest 4 at a time · No contract, stop anytime
Fully equipped classrooms — no need to bring your instrument

Your teachers

Marc Deslandes

Marc Deslandes

ClarinetFluteRecorderSaxophoneTromboneTrumpet

Testimonials

What our students and their parents say about us.

This music school is fantastic! The classes are engaging, well-structured, and truly inspiring. The teachers are not only talented but also patient and supportive.

Niranjan S.

4 months ago

Just talking on the phone makes you wanna do it, very informative and kind. Patient and very informative. Amazing. Johnny the best.

Khaled A.

1 month ago

Roxane is an exceptional teacher: talented, caring, and inspiring. After a break of more than 20 years, she gave me back my confidence and joy in playing.

Axelle B.

4 months ago

École de musique du Marché offers private recorder lessons in Montreal for children and beginners. The ideal first wind instrument from age 5-6, building music fundamentals and preparing for flute, clarinet, or saxophone later. At 288 rue Jean-Talon Est (Villeray, near Jean-Talon metro). From $30/lesson, no contract.

Frequently asked questions

What age can children start recorder?
Children can start recorder as young as 5-6 years old. It is one of the earliest instruments a child can learn, thanks to its small size and simple fingering system. It is an excellent stepping stone before transitioning to flute, clarinet, or saxophone.
How much does a recorder cost?
A quality student soprano recorder costs only $15-$40, making it the most affordable instrument to start with. Higher-quality wooden recorders for intermediate and advanced students range from $50-$300.
Is the recorder a 'real' instrument?
Absolutely. The recorder has a rich 700-year history and a vast repertoire of serious classical and Baroque music. Composers like Vivaldi, Telemann, and Handel wrote concertos specifically for the recorder. It is a legitimate concert instrument.
Can my child transition to flute or clarinet after recorder?
Yes, and that is one of recorder's greatest strengths. The finger coordination, breath control, and music reading skills built on recorder transfer directly to flute, clarinet, saxophone, and other wind instruments.
Do you teach advanced recorder as well?
Yes. Beyond the soprano recorder, we offer instruction on alto, tenor, and bass recorder, covering Baroque solo repertoire, ensemble playing, and early music performance practice.

Last updated: June 2026

Ready to start?

Enroll today — no contract, no long-term commitment.

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