The Recorder is an end-blown flute that was popular from the 16th to 18th centuries and is increasing in popularity again. In German, it is called a blockflöte and the French refer to the instrument as flüte à bec, or "beaked flute." Recorders are primarily made of wood or plastic, but bone, ivory, bakelite, ceramic, metal, and glass have been used also. They have seven finger holes and a thumb hole for octaving, and the mouthpiece contains a "block" to direct air through the windway to produce sound. Like many instruments, recorders come in several sizes and ranges from sopranino to subcontrabass. Music for the recorder is available from many sources. The recorder is played in consorts (a group of recorders), chamber music, orchestras and as a solo instrument.
Midwest Recorder and Early Music Page
updated on 8/21/97
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