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Shipping to USA
only 44 USD
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The recorder is a widely used woodwind instrument, valued for its clear response, simple playing technique, and versatility. From classroom music education and beginner lessons to ensemble playing, early music, and home practice, recorders continue to play an important role in musical training across the United States.
At MUSIC STORE, you’ll find recorders in a wide range of sizes, fingerings, and materials – from durable beginner models to high-quality instruments designed for ensemble and concert use. All recorders are carefully selected for reliable performance and long-term enjoyment.
Discover recorders for getting started, instruments for group and ensemble playing, and essential accessories – all shipped to the USA with a 3-year warranty. Below, we explain the key differences and offer guidance on size, fingering, materials, and useful accessories.
Choosing the right recorder depends on your experience level, musical goals, and tonal preference. Beginners often start with a soprano recorder, while intermediate and advanced players move to the alto for its warmer sound. Tenor and bass recorders extend the lower range and add depth to ensemble playing.
The soprano recorder is the most commonly played recorder worldwide. Its easy response, stable intonation, and compact size make it ideal for beginners as well as ensemble use.
The balanced dimensions suit children, teens, and adults alike. Models with plastic headjoints are especially easy to maintain, while wooden versions often offer a slightly warmer tone.
Tip: If you’re looking for a simple, versatile starting point, the soprano recorder is a great choice.
The Mollenhauer 17313 Fipple is a popular soprano recorder for beginners and classroom use.
The alto recorder is often the next step after the soprano. Its fuller, warmer tone makes it especially popular for ensemble work, chamber music, and solo repertoire.
Many alto recorders are made from wood, offering a balanced response and rich sound. Practical, low-maintenance alternatives are also available for regular playing.
Recommendation: Ideal if you’re looking for more expressive range or frequently play multi-part music.
The Mollenhauer 2266 Canta is known for its warm tone and versatility.
The tenor recorder extends the range downward and offers more volume than soprano and alto models. It is well suited for ensemble playing and larger groups.
Because of their size, many tenor recorders feature keys for comfortable fingering. Plastic models are especially practical for everyday use.
Tip: Ergonomic keywork and a strong low register make longer practice sessions more comfortable.
The Yamaha YRT-304 BII combines a rich sound with excellent durability.
The bass recorder provides the harmonic foundation in ensemble settings, adding depth and warmth to the overall sound.
Due to their size, bass recorders are typically equipped with keys, making wider finger stretches easier and improving comfort during long rehearsals.
Tip: ABS models are a practical choice for frequent use – durable, low-maintenance, and quick to play.
The Yamaha YRB-302B II is a reliable, easy-care bass recorder.
Two fingering systems are commonly used: German and baroque fingering. They differ in certain fingerings and influence tuning and technique.
Note: For ensemble playing and more advanced repertoire, baroque fingering is usually the better choice.
The material affects tone, maintenance, and everyday practicality. Plastic recorders are durable, hygienic, and ideal for frequent use. Wooden recorders often offer a warmer, more nuanced sound but require a bit more care.
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 safe, practical transport, especially for ensemble players.
Mollenhauer, Moeck, Yamaha, and other respected manufacturers stand for reliable intonation, good response, and durable construction – from beginner instruments to concert recorders.
A soprano recorder is usually the best choice for beginners. Plastic models are affordable, durable, and easy to maintain, making them ideal for classroom use and home practice.
No. While recorders are common in U.S. music education, they are also fully developed instruments used in ensembles, early music, and solo performance.
A soprano recorder is typically recommended for children due to its manageable size and comfortable finger spacing.
German fingering simplifies certain notes for beginners, while baroque fingering is the international standard and provides more accurate tuning.
Plastic recorders are practical and durable, while wooden recorders offer a warmer tone but require more care.
The alto recorder offers a richer sound and is a popular upgrade from the soprano for ensemble and solo playing.
A tenor recorder is a good option if you want to play lower parts and add depth to group music. Many models include keys for comfort.
A bass recorder provides the harmonic foundation in ensemble and recorder orchestra settings.
After playing, dry the inside with a cleaning rod or cloth. Wooden recorders may need additional care and should be stored in a stable environment.
Cleaning rods, cases, wood-care products, fingering charts, and safe transport solutions are all useful, especially for ensemble players.
