Selection of Kamala Bain's recorders Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
As is the case for innumerable people in the western world and beyond, most Kiwis will have encountered the humble recorder while at primary school or even earlier.
A relatively simple instrument to master at a most basic level, its centuries-old history as a serious Baroque and Renaissance instrument did not equip it well for Twentieth Century music.
Considered almost a toy/novelty instrument on a par with the ukelele or kazoo – it nevertheless has made its pure, evocative presence felt.
Ian Chapman revisits rock/pop songs in which, above all odds, the recorder managed to shine.
Ian is Honorary Senior Research Fellow in Music at the University of Otago.
