Choosing the Right Recorder: ABS vs Wood & Baroque Fingering Explained

How to Choose the Right Recorder for Your Musical Journey

Recorders come in various materials, sizes, and fingering systems, each offering unique advantages. ABS plastic recorders are ideal for beginners: durable, easy to clean, and stable in tuning. Wooden recorders provide a warmer, richer tone but require more care, making them suitable for advanced musicians.

Another consideration is fingering system:

• German fingering simplifies certain notes for beginners

• Baroque fingering is standard for professional repertoire, offering better intonation

Recorder size also matters: the soprano recorder is most common for beginners, while alto, tenor, and bass expand musical possibilities.

Choosing the right recorder depends on your goals. For beginners, a high-quality ABS soprano recorder with Baroque fingering (like Sondery’s) provides durability, ease of use, and excellent sound. Advanced players may opt for wooden instruments for greater expressiveness.