Choosing Your Recorder

Soprano vs Alto Recorder

Soprano (Descant) Recorder is the most common starting instrument. It's smaller, higher-pitched, and ideal for children and beginners. The soprano plays in the key of C.

Alto (Treble) Recorder is larger with a richer, lower sound. It's the preferred instrument for serious study and Baroque repertoire. The alto plays in the key of F.

Material: Plastic vs Wood

Plastic recorders are affordable ($10-40), durable, and require minimal maintenance. Perfect for beginners. Recommended brands: Yamaha, Aulos.

Wooden recorders ($100-2000+) offer superior tone quality but require more care. Consider upgrading after 6-12 months of consistent practice.

Fingering System

Baroque (Modern) Fingering - Recommended. This system works best for chromatic playing and advanced music.

German Fingering - Not recommended. Simpler initially but creates problems with F# and other chromatic notes.

Recommended Starter Recorders

Yamaha YRS-23 (Soprano, Baroque fingering) - $8-12
Aulos 303A (Soprano, Baroque fingering) - $10-15
Yamaha YRA-28B (Alto, Baroque fingering) - $15-20

Avoid: Ultra-cheap recorders under $5. They produce poor tone and make learning frustrating.

Ready? Start Lesson 1