Choosing an Instrument
I’m new to early music. Where should I start?
Our team has decades of experience helping musicians choose their first instrument. Whether you’re interested in recorder, lute, viol, harp, crumhorn or another historical instrument, we’re happy to recommend options based on your experience, budget and musical interests.
Can you help me choose the right recorder?
Absolutely. We stock recorders for complete beginners through to professional performers. We can advise on the right size, fingering system, wood, pitch and manufacturer to suit your needs.
Should I buy a wooden or plastic recorder?
Plastic recorders are excellent for beginners, schools and casual playing, offering great value and durability. Wooden recorders generally provide a richer, warmer tone and are preferred by advancing and professional players.
Can I compare different instruments before buying?
Yes. If you visit one of our shops, you’re welcome to try a range of instruments. Our knowledgeable staff can explain the differences between models and help you find the right fit. We can also arrange to send out instruments for a trial period too.
Do you sell instruments suitable for children?
Yes. We stock a wide range of beginner instruments suitable for children, schools and music services, as well as instruments that players can progress with for many years.
Orders & Delivery
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We regularly ship instruments and music worldwide. Shipping costs and estimated delivery times are calculated during checkout.
Will I have to pay import duties or taxes?
For orders shipped outside the UK, local customs charges, VAT or import duties may apply. These are set by your country’s customs authority and are out of our control. These are the responsibility of the customer.
How quickly will my order be dispatched?
Items that are in stock are usually dispatched within 1–2 working days. If an item has a longer lead time, this will be shown on the product page.
Can I track my order?
Yes. Once your order has been dispatched, you’ll receive a tracking email where available.
Returns & Warranty
What if I change my mind?
If you’ve purchased online, you can return most unused items within our returns period. Please see our Returns Policy for full details.
What if my instrument arrives damaged?
Please contact us as soon as possible, ideally with photographs of the packaging and the instrument. We’ll work quickly to resolve the issue.
Do your instruments come with a warranty?
Yes. New instruments are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, together with your statutory consumer rights.
Repairs & Maintenance
Do you offer repairs or servicing?
Yes. We offer servicing and repairs for many of the instruments we sell. Please contact us with details of your instrument and we’ll advise on the best course of action.
How should I care for a wooden recorder?
Wooden recorders benefit from regular cleaning, careful drying after playing and appropriate oiling where recommended. We also stock maintenance products and are happy to advise. Our [Recorder Yearbook] gives lots of useful advice for how to care for your instrument.
Can you service instruments not purchased from The Early Music Shop?
In some cases, yes. Get in touch with details of your instrument and we’ll let you know what services are available.
Music & Accessories
Do you stock sheet music for beginners?
Yes. We have one of the largest collections of early music sheet music, including tutor books, graded repertoire, ensemble music and scholarly editions.
Can you recommend music for my instrument?
Certainly. Our team can suggest suitable repertoire based on your instrument, ability and musical interests.
Do you sell replacement parts and accessories?
Yes. We stock cases, stands, cleaning equipment, reeds, strings, maintenance products, spare recorder joints and many other accessories.
Visiting Us
Can I visit your shop?
Yes. We’d love to welcome you. Our knowledgeable staff can demonstrate instruments and help you choose the right one. We have a shop at Salts Mill in Saltaire, West Yorkshire; and a second shop at Snape Maltings in Suffolk.
Do I need an appointment?
Appointments aren’t essential, but if you’re travelling a long distance or wish to try several high-value instruments, letting us know in advance helps us prepare everything for your visit.
About The Early Music Shop
Why buy from The Early Music Shop?
We’ve been serving musicians for over 50 years and are one of the world’s leading specialists in historical musical instruments. Our team includes experienced players who can offer practical, impartial advice, whether you’re buying your very first recorder or investing in a professional instrument.
Do you support schools, teachers and ensembles?
Yes. We regularly work with schools, music hubs, universities, conservatoires and professional ensembles, offering expert advice and competitive quotations for larger purchases.
I can’t find what I’m looking for. Can you help?
Absolutely. If you can’t find a particular instrument, accessory or piece of music on our website, please contact us. We may be able to source it or suggest a suitable alternative.
Additional Questions
What is A=415Hz, and do I need it?
A=415Hz is a historical pitch commonly used when performing Baroque music. It’s approximately a semitone lower than modern concert pitch (A=440Hz). If you play with period instrument ensembles or specialise in Baroque repertoire, a 415Hz instrument may be the right choice. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to advise.
What’s the difference between Baroque and German recorder fingering?
Baroque fingering is the international standard and is used by the vast majority of recorder players, teachers and examination boards. German fingering was developed to make some beginner notes easier but can make more advanced playing and chromatic notes more difficult. If you’re buying your first recorder, we generally recommend Baroque fingering unless your school specifically requires German.
Which recorder brand is best?
There isn’t a single ‘best’ recorder – it depends on your experience, playing style and budget. We stock trusted makers including Mollenhauer, Moeck, Küng, Von Huene, Takeyama, Paetzold, Kunath, Yamaha, Aulos, Zen-On and many more. Our team can help you choose the instrument that best suits your needs.
Can I finance my purchase?
We offer finance options on selected purchases, making it easier to spread the cost of larger investments. Please see our payment options or contact us for more information.
Do you sell gift vouchers?
Yes. Gift vouchers make an ideal present for musicians and can be used towards instruments, sheet music, accessories and more.
Can I reserve an instrument before buying?
In many cases, yes. If you’re planning to visit us or need a little time before completing your purchase, please contact us and we’ll do our best to reserve the instrument for you.
Do you buy second-hand instruments?
We occasionally purchase quality pre-owned early musical instruments. If you have an instrument you wish to sell, please contact us with photographs, details of its condition and any available history.
Do you accept part exchange?
We may be able to offer part exchange against selected instruments. Please get in touch with details of your existing instrument and what you’re looking to purchase.
Can I order an instrument that is out of stock?
Yes. Many of our instruments can be ordered from the maker. Lead times vary depending on the manufacturer and the instrument, and we’ll always provide the latest estimated delivery time.
How do I humidify and oil a wooden instrument?
Different woods and makers have different care recommendations. Generally, wooden instruments should be played in gradually when new, kept away from sudden changes in temperature and humidity, and oiled periodically if recommended by the maker. If you’re unsure how to care for your instrument, we’re always happy to help.
Can you recommend an instrument for online lessons?
Absolutely. We regularly advise customers purchasing instruments for online learning. Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to playing after many years, we can recommend reliable, good-quality instruments that will support your musical progress.
Do you have demonstration videos of your instruments?
Yes. We regularly produce demonstration videos featuring many of the instruments we sell. You’ll find these on selected product pages, our YouTube channel and our social media platforms.
How do I know which strings or reeds I need?
If you’re unsure, simply contact us with the make and model of your instrument, or send us a photograph. Our specialists will be happy to recommend the correct strings, reeds or accessories.
Do you offer educational discounts?
Yes. We regularly work with schools, music hubs, universities, conservatoires and teachers. Please contact us to discuss educational pricing or larger orders.
Can I speak to someone before placing an order?
Of course. Our knowledgeable team is available by telephone, email or in person, and we’re always happy to answer questions and help you choose the right instrument or accessory. We believe expert advice is one of the most valuable services we offer.
Why should I buy from The Early Music Shop rather than directly from a maker?
Many of the makers we work with actively choose to partner with us because we offer expert advice, worldwide marketing, demonstration videos, customer support and after-sales service. We stock instruments from a wide range of makers, allowing you to compare options objectively and receive impartial guidance. When you buy from The Early Music Shop, you’re not only purchasing an instrument – you also benefit from decades of specialist knowledge and ongoing support before and after your purchase.