This year at Open School, we be offering an after-school music class in order for students to learn to play the recorder!
In our program, the students are given recorders to use in the class and for supervised practice sessions and to keep when they move on from our recorder programs.
However, it is up to the parents whether they wish to purchase the instruments for their children to practice at home throughout the duration of the school year.
As such, we have put together this list of wonderful options for extremely affordable recorder suggestions (starting at just $7) for parents to optionally purchase for their children to use alongside our program instruments.
Here are two wonderful recorder options to get you started:
If you indeed choose one of the options listed below, please use the links in this post to make your purchase. A small portion of the purchase amount will go towards a budget for improvements and upgrades to the instruments used at Open School.
Yamaha YRS-20 or YRS-24 Soprano Recorder
This recorder is the gold standard in plastic soprano recorders and one that we own personally (the YRS-24).
It has three pieces which makes for easier cleaning and tuning.
The primary difference between these two models is the colors. The YRS-20 comes in three translucent colors and the YRS-24 come in ivory.
In addition, the YRS-24 (ivory) model is currently a dollar cheaper at $7.99 versus the $8.99 price tag for the YRS-20 (with various color options).
(Note: Make sure you get either the YRS-20 or YRS-24 model. The YRS-23 model has different fingering.)
Eastrock Soprano Recorder
While we have not used these recorders, they do seem to be decent quality instruments and start at a dollar cheaper than the Yamaha instruments (under $7).
There are also a lot more colors to choose from. However, be sure to check the price before you make your purchase as the price varies from color to color.
Want something different or even better?
We can assure you that the options above will work perfectly for our students. But, in case you would prefer to search on your own, here are three keywords the recorder description must have:
1) Soprano
It is important that it is a Soprano recorder. Alto, tenor, and bass recorders (or any other variation) will look, sound and feel different.
2) Baroque
Specifically, you are looking for a recorder with Baroque-style fingering. (German-style fingering is different and will confuse the student)
3) Key of C
If the instrument is in a Key other than C, the student will not be able to ever use the instrument to play along with classmates or any recordings we provide for home practice.
4) Three Pieces
We do not currently consider one-piece instruments suitable for our students as they do allow for proper cleaning, which is a fundamental practice taught in class.
If you would like suggestions for a nicer recorder (such as a traditional recorder made out of wood), please feel to contact us and we will send you more information.