Recorder Fingering Worksheets in Flat for Education: Soprano vs Alto Baroque Explained

If you've opened Flat for Education's new fingering worksheet tool and seen two options — Soprano Recorder (Baroque) and Alto Recorder (Baroque) — and wondered which one to pick: this post explains exactly what the difference is and which one your students almost certainly need.

The short answer for most elementary and general music teachers: Soprano Recorder (Baroque). That's the standard classroom recorder in the US, UK, and most other markets.

What is a recorder fingering worksheet in Flat for Education?

The fingering worksheet is an auto-graded assignment. Students are shown a note on the staff and asked to identify the correct fingering. They submit and get immediate feedback. The grade goes back to your LMS gradebook automatically — Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, Canvas, Schoology, and MusicFirst all supported.

Soprano Recorder (Baroque): who needs it

The soprano recorder is pitched in C — the standard classroom recorder in most elementary programs. Baroque fingering is the professional standard used in most published method books including Essential Elements Recorder and Recorder Karate. For most classroom teachers: choose Soprano Recorder (Baroque).

Quick test: on a Baroque recorder, F uses a forked fingering (holes 1, 2, 4 covered; hole 3 open). On a German recorder, F is straight (holes 1–4 all covered). The Flat worksheet uses Baroque fingerings.

Alto Recorder (Baroque): who needs it

The alto recorder is pitched in F — a transposing instrument producing a note a fifth lower than written. Used in recorder consort programs, secondary school, and by advanced students. Choose this only if your students are specifically playing alto recorders.

How to use the fingering worksheet in practice

After introducing a new note, assign a worksheet before the next lesson. Before a performance, assign a review worksheet covering all notes in the piece. During class, use as independent practice for students ahead of the group. Also available as a print-ready PDF for non-device settings.

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