My normal view of the recorder is not especially favourable. However this afternoon I saw Les Violins Du Roy, a baroque music ensemble from Quebec City, and the guest soloist was one Maurice Stegeron recorder. He brought the house down - it was incredible. The two most notable pieces were Telemann's Suite in A minor (second thing they played) and Geminiani's Concerto per flauto no. 10 (the last thing they played). The Telemann as just before the intermission and brought on the most spontaneous, and long-lasting standing ovation I've ever seen. He was just so incredibly animated - an extraordinary virtuoso.

Just take my word on this: Maurice Steger - keep your eyes peeled in case this guy comes to your town and prepare to have your mind rearranged.

I love recorder to itty bits, so thanks for the heads up. I really wish I had recorder lessons when I was a kid.

Some more info: http://www.mauricesteger.com/. It looks as though today was the last show from the tour with Les VDR (who are also quite outstanding).

The recorder saved my sanity, when for 3 years I had no access to a piano. I learned to play alto and soprano quite well. It is a lovely instrument. The woody sound isn't as shrill as a flute can sometimes be. My appreciation was nurtured by a cousin who took recorder lessons for 9 years!

I stand corrected!