• Understand alto recorder fundamentals and differences from soprano
• Learn F fingering system (alto is pitched in F)
• Master basic alto technique and tone production
• Begin building alto repertoire

Introduction

Welcome to the alto recorder! The alto (also called treble recorder) is pitched in F, a fifth lower than the soprano. It's the most important recorder for serious players—the vast majority of professional solo repertoire is written for alto. Learning alto opens up Handel, Telemann, Vivaldi sonatas, and the entire Baroque recorder literature!

Soprano vs. Alto: Key Differences

The Good News: Same Fingerings!

The alto uses the SAME fingering system as soprano. If you know soprano fingerings, you already know alto fingerings! The difference is the resulting pitch:

• Soprano: 0123 4567 = C4
• Alto: 0123 4567 = F3

This is called "recorder fingering" or "German fingering." Everything you've learned transfers directly!

Reading Music for Alto

Here's the mental shift: Alto recorder music is written in TREBLE CLEF, but it SOUNDS a fifth lower than written.

Example:

• Written: C5 (middle C on treble staff)
• Fingering: 0123 4567 (same as soprano C)
• Sounds: F4 (a fifth lower)

Don't worry too much about this! Just read the notes and use the fingerings you know. Your ears will adjust to the lower pitch.

First Notes on Alto

Tone Production on Alto

Differences from Soprano

• More air required: Larger bore needs stronger breath support
• Slower air speed: Lower pitch needs less edge (compared to soprano)
• Larger windway: Embouchure is similar but covers larger area
• More resonant: Alto has richer, fuller sound than soprano

Getting a Good Sound

• Support from diaphragm—more air than soprano
• Don't blow too hard! Steady, supported air stream
• Embouchure relaxed, lips form gentle seal
• Angle: similar to soprano (about 45 degrees from body)

Building Your Alto Range

Physical Adjustments for Alto

Hand Position

• Slightly wider finger spread (holes are farther apart)
• May need to adjust thumb support on back
• Keep fingers curved, relaxed
• Consider using a thumb rest or neck strap for longer sessions

Holding the Alto

• Heavier than soprano—distribute weight between hands
• Some players use thumb rest on right thumb
• Neck strap is optional but helpful for long practice

Repertoire: Why Alto Matters

The greatest recorder music was written for alto:

• Handel: Sonatas in D minor, G minor, C major, F major, Bb major
• Telemann: 12+ sonatas and countless smaller works
• Vivaldi: Concerti in C minor, C major, F major, and more
• Sammartini: Beautiful sonatas
• Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 (two recorders!)

Learning alto is your gateway to this incredible music!

Soprano vs. Alto: When to Use Each

Use Soprano For:

• Higher, brighter sound needed
• Top part in consort/ensemble
• Folk music, educational settings
• When alto repertoire transposes awkwardly

Use Alto For:

• Baroque solo repertoire (sonatas, concerti)
• Middle or alto part in consort
• Professional performance
• Richer, more mature sound desired

Practice Routine for Alto (Start)

When beginning alto, split your practice:

1. Soprano maintenance: 15 minutes (don't abandon it!)
2. Alto development: 15-20 minutes
   • Long tones - 5 min
   • Scales and finger exercises - 5 min
   • Simple pieces - 5-10 min

Over time, shift more practice to alto as you build proficiency.

Common Alto Beginner Mistakes

• ❌ Blowing too hard: Alto needs more air, not harder air!
• ❌ Abandoning soprano: Keep both instruments in your practice
• ❌ Expecting immediate transfer: Give yourself time to adjust
• ❌ Poor hand position: Wider stretch can cause tension. Stay relaxed!
• ❌ Using soprano embouchure unchanged: Alto needs subtle adjustment

Choosing an Alto Recorder

For your first alto:

• Budget ($100-300): Yamaha YRA-312BIII (plastic), Aulos 509B
• Mid-range ($300-800): Mollenhauer Denner, Moeck Rottenburgh
• Professional ($800+): Custom wooden instruments by master makers

A decent plastic alto is fine for learning. Upgrade to wooden when you're committed!