Recorder Sizes report

The recorder is a woodwind instrument with a long history in Europe. It has been used since the Middle Ages. It originated in Italy in the 15th century and prevailed in European countries from the 16th to the 18th century. The clarinet, with its beautiful and round tone, was the standard solo instrument of the Baroque era; it has long since become one of the most popular instruments in the world today.

The recorder plays a role in professional music performance or general music education. This musical instrument can be seen everywhere, from world-renowned music institutions such as the Vienna Conservatory to ordinary primary and secondary schools. Professional recorder ensembles and recorder study societies also abound.

Recorders are made in different sizes, with names and compasses roughly corresponding to different vocal ranges. The different lengths affect the sound of the recorder, so choosing the right size for players with different skill levels is the key. Let's find out more details about recorder sizes.

Recorder Sizing Guide

The recorder is an ensemble or consort instrument in various materials and sizes. The standard recorder is usually eight-hole, and sizes are named after the different vocal ranges. Five sizes are commonly used for playing: the Sopranino, the Soprano or Descant, the Alto or Treble, the Tenor, and the Bass. When these recorders get longer and wider, each one requires more air to make a sound. The length doesn't only affect the sound but also affects how you play the recorder. The holes are further apart as you get to the larger sizes. It means you have to stretch your hands more to reach and effectively cover all the holds as the size of the recorder gets longer.

Recorder Size Chart

The recorder varies in length slightly depending on the brand of instrument and the model. The following are the general descriptions of them.

• Garklein: The smallest size is a very high-pitched recorder.
• Sopanino: The sopranino recorder is the smallest and highest sound of the five main types of recorders, with high pitch, and is easily portable.
• Soprano (Descant): This is the most commonly known recorder length for children and beginners. It is in the key of C.
  
• Alto (Treble): Alto has a lower sound. It is easier for larger hands and ideal for adult beginners and improvers.
• Tenor: The tenor has much deeper sound with the same fingering as a soprano. The hand stretch is much more due to the larger size.
• Bass: It has a deeper sound again. It is perfect for sound effects but not usually for the main melody.
• Great Bass: The size is for more advanced players and has a deeper sound. This instrument is large and will have additional keys to make playing easier.
• Contra Bass: It has the deepest sounds among all sizes. These are very large instruments and are seldom played.
  

Final Words

Recorders are traditionally made of wood and ivory but are now available in many different kinds of wood, including pear, maple, rosewood, mahogany, cherry, etc. There are also recorders made of plastic on the market; these affordable plastic recorders are ideal for beginners. If you buy a regular plastic or wooden recorder, protection is easier; these materials won't crack due to changes in temperature and humidity. After each performance, use a soft violin cloth to dry the water in the tube and put it in the instrument box.