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Ready to ship
55,000 Products
UK Team in London
Mega Store in Cologne
Money Back
30 Day Return Policy
The recorder is a well-established woodwind instrument, valued worldwide for its clear response, straightforward playing technique and wide range of applications. From classroom teaching and school music to ensemble playing, early music and home practice, recorders remain an integral part of musical education in the UK and beyond.
At MUSIC STORE, you’ll find recorders in a variety of sizes, fingerings and materials – from durable beginner models to high-quality instruments for ensemble and concert use. All recorders are carefully selected to ensure reliable performance and long-term enjoyment.
Explore recorders for getting started, models for group and ensemble playing, and essential accessories – with delivery to the UK and a 3-year warranty. Below, we explain the key differences and offer guidance on size, fingering, material and useful accessories.
Choosing the right recorder depends on your playing level, musical context and tonal preference. Beginners usually start with a soprano recorder, while more experienced players often move on to the alto for its warmer sound. Tenor and bass recorders extend the lower register and add depth to ensemble playing.
The soprano recorder is the most commonly played recorder worldwide. With its easy response, reliable intonation and compact size, it is ideal for beginners as well as for ensemble use.
Its balanced dimensions suit children, teenagers and adults alike. Models with a plastic headjoint are particularly low-maintenance, while wooden versions often offer a slightly warmer tone.
Tip: If you’re looking for a straightforward all-round instrument, the soprano recorder is an excellent starting point.
The Mollenhauer 17313 Fipple is a popular soprano recorder for beginners.
The alto recorder is often the next step after the soprano. Its sound is noticeably warmer and fuller, making it a favourite for ensemble work, chamber music and solo repertoire.
Many alto recorders are made from wood, offering a balanced response and a rounded tone. There are also practical, low-maintenance alternatives suitable for regular playing.
Recommendation: A great choice if you’re looking for more musical expression or regularly play polyphonic music.
The Mollenhauer 2266 Canta impresses with its warm sound and versatility.
The tenor recorder extends the range downwards and offers more volume than soprano and alto models. It is ideal for ensemble playing and larger groups.
Due to its size, many tenor recorders feature keys to make fingering more comfortable. Plastic models are especially practical for everyday use.
Tip: Ergonomic keywork and a stable low register make longer playing sessions far more comfortable.
The Yamaha YRT-304 BII combines a rich sound with excellent durability.
The bass recorder provides the foundation in ensemble playing, adding depth and warmth to the overall sound.
Because of their size, bass recorders are usually equipped with keys, making finger stretches more manageable and improving comfort during longer rehearsals.
Tip: ABS models are a practical choice for regular use – robust, low-maintenance and quick to play.
The Yamaha YRB-302B II is a reliable, easy-care bass recorder.
Two fingering systems are commonly used internationally: German and baroque fingering. They differ in certain fingerings and affect intonation and technique.
Note: If you play in an ensemble or use more advanced repertoire, baroque fingering is usually the more compatible choice.
The material influences sound, maintenance and everyday practicality. Plastic recorders are robust, hygienic and ideal for frequent use. Wooden recorders often offer a warmer, more nuanced tone but require more careful handling.
The right accessories help keep your recorder clean, protected and ready to play. Useful items include cleaning rods and cloths, cases, wood-care products, fingering charts and solutions for practical, protective transport, especially for ensemble players.
Mollenhauer, Moeck, Yamaha and other respected manufacturers stand for reliable intonation, good response and durable build quality – from beginner instruments to concert recorders.
For beginners, a soprano recorder is usually recommended. Plastic or hybrid models are durable, affordable and easy to maintain, making them ideal for school use and home practice.
No. While recorders are widely used in UK schools, they are also fully-fledged instruments used in ensembles, early music and solo performance. High-quality models offer accurate intonation and expressive dynamics.
A soprano recorder is usually the best choice for children, thanks to its manageable size, comfortable finger spacing and clear response.
German fingering simplifies some notes for beginners, while baroque fingering is the international standard and offers more accurate tuning, especially in ensemble playing.
Plastic recorders are robust and practical for regular use. Wooden recorders provide a warmer tone but need more care and controlled storage.
The alto recorder is a key voice in ensemble playing and a popular step up from the soprano, offering a warmer sound and greater expressive range.
A tenor recorder is ideal if you want to play lower parts and add more depth to ensemble music. Many models feature keys for added comfort.
A bass recorder provides the harmonic foundation in ensemble settings and is especially useful in recorder orchestras.
After playing, dry the inside with a cleaning rod or cloth. Wooden recorders may require additional care and should be protected from extreme temperature changes.
Cleaning rods, cases, wood-care products, fingering charts and suitable transport solutions are all useful, particularly for ensemble players.
