Originally Posted By: Russ
... It seems I should not have started with a wood recorder, plastic requires much less maintenance and they are nearly indestructible. According to the manufacture's website, the alto recorder I have is stabilized maple, so probably not as delicate as the $3000 wood recorder
...
The issue I have is probably not finger placement as much as it is breath control.


I ended up playing alto recorder through a circuitous route. I've since dropped the harmonica in favor of it. Unless you plan on recitals, a brand name resin recorder is a good hobbyist and rough use instrument. The one I have is a Yamaha YRA-312 ~$30. I've found that the arched windway really helps with breath control. The other two name brands are Aulos and Zen-on.
_________________________
Hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

The object in life is not to be on the side of the majority, but to escape finding oneself in the ranks of the insane