Sizes of Recorder
The recorder ranges from the pocket-sized garklein to the taller-than-a person subcontrabass. Most people that have played are familiar with the soprano, and for good reason. The soprano is large enough for adult hands, and small enough for a child to hold. It is tuned to C, a key compatible with most available resources for learning how to play. Beginners will find the alto too large to comfortably cover the lowest tone hole, and the sopranino too small to finger without getting jammed up. If your hand is large enough to easily palm a basketball, you might consider the larger alto recorder.
Plastic or Wood?
How much money do you want to spend? Plastic recorders are dirt-cheap in comparison with most wooden instruments. One wooden recorder can cost as much as an entire ensemble's worth of plastic instruments. If you are a beginner, plastic is the superior choice for a few reasons.
Plastic is very durable. Even very cheap recorders in the $5 - $10 price range are made of high quality ABS plastic, virtually unbreakable. Chew on the beak. Drop it. Stick it in your pocket. You won't need to work overtime to replace it if you somehow manage to break it. I have had a Yamaha 24B for around 20 years and still play it today.
Plastic is easy to clean and maintain. You simply wash it with soap and water. There is no need to oil it or worry about temperature and humidity. If you forget to wipe it dry before storing, it will not rot or grow mould.
Plastic is very durable. Even very cheap recorders in the $5 - $10 price range are made of high quality ABS plastic, virtually unbreakable. Chew on the beak. Drop it. Stick it in your pocket. You won't need to work overtime to replace it if you somehow manage to break it. I have had a Yamaha 24B for around 20 years and still play it today.
Plastic is easy to clean and maintain. You simply wash it with soap and water. There is no need to oil it or worry about temperature and humidity. If you forget to wipe it dry before storing, it will not rot or grow mould.
