Aulos Recorders - the accessible and sustainable choice for music education

This article was written by Rob Bennett from Aulos Recorders (c/o Barnes & Mullins Ltd).

The recorder has long been a popular choice in music education due to its affordability, accessibility, and ease of use. As an inexpensive instrument, it is widely available and suitable for schools with limited budgets, making it one of the most played instruments by children. Its lightweight design and simple fingering system allow children to quickly produce clear notes, fostering an immediate sense of accomplishment and encouraging persistence. The recorder also allows the introduction of fundamental musical concepts such as rhythm, pitch, melody, and breath control, serving as a gateway to more complex instruments. Additionally, playing the recorder aid the development of finer motor skills and coordination, helping to make it a well-rounded educational tool.

The recorder shines in group settings, where its ensemble-friendly nature and availability in various sizes (descant, treble, tenor, bass) allow for good Whole Class Ensemble Teaching (WCET). The instrument's rich history, dating back to the medieval and Renaissance periods, adds cultural and historical dimensions too. Furthermore, recorders are easy to clean, lightweight and sturdy, all important considerations in shared classroom environments. The combination of practicality and educational value ensures its continued popularity in schools worldwide.

The Aulos advantage

Aulos has built a strong reputation as a reliable international brand in the world of music education, particularly known for their recorders. These instruments have become a mainstay in classrooms around the world, valued for their durability and ease of use, making them an ideal choice for students taking their first steps into music. Teachers and parents alike appreciate Aulos recorders for their affordability and dependable sound quality, which supports group learning, ensemble performances and individual learning.

Made from a high-grade bespoke ABS resin, Aulos recorders are both durable and easy to maintain, making them perfectly suited to classroom environments. Their design ensures consistent, accurate intonation across the instrument, allowing students to focus on developing their musical skills rather than struggling with unreliable sound quality or tuning. For music teachers, this reliability in tuning means they can confidently lead group lessons, knowing the recorders will harmonise seamlessly, which enhances the learning experience and supports students in developing essential listening and teamwork skills.

Thoughtful, accessible design

Aulos’s standout contribution to music education is the Aulos ‘Accessibility Model’, enabling students with physical disabilities to participate in playing music comfortably. This model demonstrates thoughtful adaptations including the segmented tone-hole feature which breaks down the recorder into six separate sections, fitting smoothly into one another. By rotating the tone holes and plugging certain holes, the recorder can accommodate fingers that are missing or have limited movement. Once adjusted for an individual’s hand, the sections may then be glued into permanent position using the supplied glue. This instrument then becomes personal to the player. Through this design, Aulos promotes inclusivity in the classroom, supporting music teachers who aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment for every child.

Popular models also include the 303 Elite descant recorder, which comes with a bag, fingering chart, thumb rest and cleaning rod, as well as the 205A Robin descant recorder, classically designed and supplied with yellow corduroy bag, with string tie, fingering chart & cleaning rod.

Continuous development for education

Aulos continually develop their technology to support a positive playing experience. The attention to detail and high precision manufacturing tolerances results in instruments that are played in over 50 countries worldwide. Each recorder is supplied with a cleaning rod, thumb rest and carry-case.

Overall, Aulos recorders offer an ideal entry point for young musicians, combining accessibility, durability, and quality sound. Their high-quality design and consideration for inclusivity helps foster a positive, collaborative classroom culture where all students, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of making music together.