Washington Recorder Society

The Washington Recorder Society (WRS), a chapter of the national American Recorder Society, is the premier place for people in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area who want to play the recorder together. For more than 50 years, WRS has been providing recorder players of all abilities with colleagues, teachers, workshops and great music from the Renaissance and Baroque eras to the present. New members and visitors are always welcome.

WRS members meet in person from September to May on the third Saturday of the month at St. Columba’s Church, 4201 Albemarle St NW, Washington, DC 20016. Music leaders David McGown and Adela Balima direct a 2-hour playing session. Bring your instruments and a music stand; music is provided. On the first Monday of selected months, members get free online instruction from well-known teachers across North America. Register online and receive the music and Zoom link. Other membership benefits include newsletters, recitals and access to the members-only part of the website.


Latest News


  • Mon, Nov 18, 7:30pm, on-line session with Rachel Begley

    Join Rachel Begley in a virtual session. She performs as a soloist and with ensembles across North America, and has been hailed for her virtuosic and sensitive playing on both recorders and historical bassoons (bio).

    She will present a session on ‘Good Night, and Good Luck’. At the end of the day, we say our farewells, we say our prayers, we sing lullabies, we clean our teeth, and when all of that is done, hopefully we drift off to sleep.  The theme of this playing meeting is music connected with these evening rituals. 

    To attend the session, please register here

  • Sat. December 14, 10am-1pm: in person Holiday party and music playing

    Join for Holiday party and music playing with David McGown and Adéla Balima. If you wish bring something sweet or savory to share.

  • September Newsletter is out

    Click here to read the latest news about past workshops, future meetings and many other recorder events. This issue has notes on four summer workshops attended by members, a note on the past WRS Spring Festival, and much more.